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A Crystal Age

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A Crystal Age
The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Crystal Age, by W. H. Hudson #6 in our series by W. H. Hudson Copyright laws are changing all over the world. Be sure to check the copyright laws for your country before downloading or redistributing this or any other Project Gutenberg eBook. This header should be the first thing seen when viewing this Project Gutenberg file. Please do not remove it. Do not change or edit the header without written permission. Please read the "legal small print," and other information about the eBook and Project Gutenberg at the bottom of this file. Included is important information about your specific rights and restrictions in how the file may be used. You can also find out about how to make a donation to Project Gutenberg, and how to get involved. **Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts** **eBooks Readable By Both Humans and By Computers, Since 1971** *****These eBooks Were Prepared By Thousands of Volunteers!***** Title: A Crystal Age Author: W. H. Hudson Release Date: February, 2005 [EBook #7401] [Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule] [This file was first posted on April 24, 2003] Edition: 10 Language: English

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Character set encoding: ASCII *** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK A CRYSTAL AGE *** Produced by Eric Eldred, David Garcia and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. A CRYSTAL AGE BY W. H. HUDSON PREFACE _Romances of the future, however fantastic they may be, have for most of us a perennial if mild interest, since they are born of a very common feeling−−a sense of dissatisfaction with the existing order of things, combined with a vague faith in or hope of a better one to come. The picture put before us is false; we knew it would be false before looking at it, since we cannot imagine what is unknown any more than we can build without materials. Our mental atmosphere surrounds and shuts us in like our own skins; no one can boast that he has broken out of that prison. The vast, unbounded prospect lies before us, but, as the poet mournfully adds, "clouds and darkness rest upon it." Nevertheless we cannot suppress all curiosity, or help asking one another, What is your dream−−your ideal? What is your News from Nowhere, or, rather, what is the result of the little shake your hand has given to the old pasteboard toy with a dozen bits of colored glass for contents? And, most important of all, can you present it in a narrative or romance which will enable me to pass an idle hour not disagreeably? How, for instance, does it compare in this respect with other prophetic books on the shelf?_ _I am not referring to living authors; least of all to that flamingo of letters who for the last decade or so has been a wonder to our island birds. For what could I say of him that is not known to every one−−that he is the tallest of fowls, land or water, of a most singular shape, and has

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black−tipped crimson wings folded under his delicate rose−colored plumage? These other books referred to, written, let us say, from thirty or forty years to a century or two ago, amuse us in a way their poor dead authors never intended. Most amusing are the dead ones who take themselves seriously, whose books are pulpits quaintly carved and decorated with precious stones and silken canopies in which they stand and preach to or at their contemporaries._ _In like manner, in going through this book of mine after so many years I am amused at the way it is colored by the little cults and crazes, and modes of thought of the 'eighties of the last century. They were so important then, and now, if remembered at all, they appear so trivial! It pleases me to be diverted in this way at "A Crystal Age"−−to find, in fact, that I have not stood still while the world has been moving._ _This criticism refers to the case, the habit, of the book rather than to its spirit, since when we write we do, as the red man thought, impart something of our souls to the paper, and it is probable that if I were to write a new dream of the future it would, though in some respects very different from this, still be a dream and picture of the human race in its forest period._ _Alas that in this case the wish cannot induce belief! For now I remember another thing which Nature said−−that earthly excellence can come in no way but one, and the ending of passion and strife is the beginning of decay. It is indeed a hard saying, and the hardest lesson we can learn of her without losing love and bidding good−by forever to hope._ W. H. H. A CRYSTAL AGE

then. anyhow. although the cloth exuded a damp. but the pit in which it had left the huge stumps of severed roots was. puzzled me greatly: it looked as if the solid earth had been indulging in some curious transformation pranks during those moments or minutes of insensibility. My watch was gone. I could have fallen seemingly so far from no height at all. like a mole coming to the surface of the earth to feel the genial sunshine on his dim eyeballs. How long I lay there under the heap of earth and stones carried down in my fall it is impossible to say: perhaps a long time. I found.Chapter 1
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Chapter 1
I do not quite know how it happened. The fall was a very considerable one−−probably thirty or forty feet. I remember that I had taken up the study of plants with a good deal of enthusiasm. if I remember rightly. I found myself standing (oddly enough. After stripping the woody covering off. It appeared as if the roots had grown round me! Luckily they were quite sapless and brittle. but at last I came to myself and struggled up from the debris. my recollection of the whole matter ebbing in a somewhat clouded condition. and that while hunting for some variety in the mountains I sat down to rest on the edge of a ravine. also that my thick−soled climbing boots had assumed a cracked rusty appearance as if I had been engaged in some brick−field operations. The tree itself had rolled down to the bottom of the ravine. while my felt hat was in such a discolored and battered condition that I felt almost ashamed to put it on my head. so that I was like a colossal basket−worm in its case. situated in a gentle slope at the top of the bank! How. I fancy I had gone somewhere on a botanizing expedition. and I was rendered unconscious. the ground gave way all about me. Perhaps it was on the ledge of an overhanging rock. precipitating me below. moldy smell. Another singular circumstance was that I had a great mass of small fibrous rootlets tightly woven about my whole person. At all events. or a big man−shaped bottle covered with wicker−work. perhaps I had not been wearing it. or more. I found that my tourist suit of rough Scotch homespun had not suffered much harm. but my pocket−book in which I had my money was safe in my
. on all fours) in an immense pit created by the overthrow of a gigantic dead tree with a girth of about thirty or forty feet. but whether at home or abroad I don't know. and without bothering my brains too much about the matter. I set to work to rid myself of them.

beyond which rose a mountain range resembling in the distance blue banked−up clouds with summits and peaks of pearly whiteness. proceeded on my walk. The prospect which disclosed itself when I had got a couple of hundred feet above the surrounding level. the ground was moist. Looking on this scene I could hardly refrain from shouting with joy. and. and after splashing about for half an hour managed to rid my skin of its accumulations of dirt. Glad and grateful at having escaped with unbroken bones from such a dangerous accident. but no town. but. I set out walking along the edge of the ravine. Lying flat on my chest to slake my thirst animal fashion. I was amazed at the reflection the water gave back of my face: it was. then dressed. which soon broadened to a valley running between two steep hills. make me feel. and the glint of a wide stream not very far off. appeared unfamiliar. A more tranquil and soul−satisfying scene could not be imagined: the dear old mother earth was looking her very best. so glad did the sunlit expanse of earth. For an hour or so I followed the valley in its many windings. I ascended a hill to get a view of the surrounding country. and not one solitary spire. nor even a hamlet." and bring them into a closer kinship with the blue over−arching sky. The season was late summer−−that was plain to see. while the shifting golden sunlight.Chapter 1
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breast pocket. seemed to spiritualize her "happy autumn fields. before me spread a wide rolling country. While drying in the wind I shook the loose sand and clay from my garments. failing to see any dwelling−place. There was one large house or mansion in sight. and the earth everywhere had that intense living greenness with which it reclothes itself when the greater heats are over. thickly encrusted with clay and rootlets! Having taken a long drink. I ran down the slope to get a drink. skin and hair. In vain I scanned the horizon. I threw off my clothes to have a bath. the mysterious haze in the distance. waiting impatiently to see the distant puff of white steam from some passing
. but the foliage of the woods was already beginning to be touched here and there with the yellow and russet hues of decay. as if from recent showers. seeing water at the bottom and feeling very dry. The hills among which I had been wandering were now behind me. feeling greatly refreshed. and then. and the pure exhilarating mountain breeze.

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engine. This troubled me not a little, for I had no idea that I had drifted so far from civilization in my search for specimens, or whatever it was that brought me to this pretty, primitive wilderness. Not quite a wilderness, however, for there, within a short hour's walk of the hill, stood the one great stone mansion, close to the river I had mentioned. There were also horses and cows in sight, and a number of scattered sheep were grazing on the hillside beneath me. Strange to relate, I met with a little misadventure on account of the sheep−−an animal which one is accustomed to regard as of a timid and inoffensive nature. When I set out at a brisk pace to walk to the house I have spoken of, in order to make some inquiries there, a few of the sheep that happened to be near began to bleat loudly, as if alarmed, and by and by they came hurrying after me, apparently in a great state of excitement. I did not mind them much, but presently a pair of horses, attracted by their bleatings, also seemed struck at my appearance, and came at a swift gallop to within twenty yards of me. They were magnificent−looking brutes, evidently a pair of well−groomed carriage horses, for their coats, which were of a fine bronze color, sparkled wonderfully in the sunshine. In other respects they were very unlike carriage animals, for they had tails reaching to the ground, like funeral horses, and immense black leonine manes, which gave them a strikingly bold and somewhat formidable appearance. For some moments they stood with heads erect, gazing fixedly at me, and then simultaneously delivered a snort of defiance or astonishment, so loud and sudden that it startled me like the report of a gun. This tremendous equine blast brought yet another enemy on the field in the shape of a huge milk−white bull with long horns: a very noble kind of animal, but one which I always prefer to admire from behind a hedge, or at a distance through a field−glass. Fortunately his wrathful mutterings gave me timely notice of his approach, and without waiting to discover his intentions, I incontinently fled down the slope to the refuge of a grove or belt of trees clothing the lower portion of the hillside. Spent and panting from my run, I embraced a big tree, and turning to face the foe, found that I had not been followed: sheep, horses, and bull were all grouped together just where I had left them, apparently holding a consultation, or comparing notes.

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The trees where I had sought shelter were old, and grew here and there, singly or in scattered groups: it was a pretty wilderness of mingled tree, shrub and flower. I was surprised to find here some very large and ancient−looking fig−trees, and numbers of wasps and flies were busy feeding on a few over−ripe figs on the higher branches. Honey−bees also roamed about everywhere, extracting sweets from the autumn bloom, and filling the sunny glades with a soft, monotonous murmur of sound. Walking on full of happy thoughts and a keen sense of the sweetness of life pervading me, I presently noticed that a multitude of small birds were gathering about me, flitting through the trees overhead and the bushes on either hand, but always keeping near me, apparently as much excited at my presence as if I had been a gigantic owl, or some such unnatural monster. Their increasing numbers and incessant excited chirping and chattering at first served to amuse, but in the end began to irritate me. I observed, too, that the alarm was spreading, and that larger birds, usually shy of men−−pigeons, jays, and magpies, I fancied they were−−now began to make their appearance. Could it be, thought I with some concern, that I had wandered into some uninhabited wilderness, to cause so great a commotion among the little feathered people? I very soon dismissed this as an idle thought, for one does not find houses, domestic animals, and fruit−trees in desert places. No, it was simply the inherent cantankerousness of little birds which caused them to annoy me. Looking about on the ground for something to throw at them, I found in the grass a freshly−fallen walnut, and, breaking the shell, I quickly ate the contents. Never had anything tasted so pleasant to me before! But it had a curious effect on me, for, whereas before eating it I had not felt hungry, I now seemed to be famishing, and began excitedly searching about for more nuts. They were lying everywhere in the greatest abundance; for, without knowing it, I had been walking through a grove composed in large part of old walnut−trees. Nut after nut was picked up and eagerly devoured, and I must have eaten four or five dozen before my ravenous appetite was thoroughly appeased. During this feast I had paid no attention to the birds, but when my hunger was over I began again to feel annoyed at their trivial persecutions, and so continued to gather the fallen nuts to throw at them. It amused and piqued me at the same time to see how wide of the mark my missiles went. I could hardly have hit a haystack at a distance of ten yards. After half an hour's

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vigorous practice my right hand began to recover its lost cunning, and I was at last greatly delighted when of my nuts went hissing like a bullet through the leaves, not further than a yard from the wren, or whatever the little beggar was, I had aimed at. Their Impertinences did not like this at all; they began to find out that I was a rather dangerous person to meddle with: their ranks were broken, they became demoralized and scattered, in all directions, and I was finally left master of the field. "Dolt that I am," I suddenly exclaimed, "to be fooling away my time when the nearest railway station or hotel is perhaps twenty miles away." I hurried on, but when I got to the end of the grove, on the green sward near some laurel and juniper bushes, I came on an excavation apparently just made, the loose earth which had been dug out looking quite fresh and moist. The hole or foss was narrow, about five feet deep and seven feet long, and looked, I imagined, curiously like a grave. A few yards away was a pile of dry brushwood, and some faggots bound together with ropes of straw, all apparently freshly cut from the neighboring bushes. As I stood there, wondering what these things meant, I happened to glance away in the direction of the house where I intended to call, which was not now visible owing to an intervening grove of tall trees, and was surprised to discover a troop of about fifteen persons advancing along the valley in my direction. Before them marched a tall white−bearded old man; next came eight men, bearing a platform on their shoulders with some heavy burden resting upon it; and behind these followed the others. I began to think that they were actually carrying a corpse, with the intention of giving it burial in that very pit beside which I was standing; and, although it looked most unlike a funeral, for no person in the procession wore black, the thought strengthened to a conviction when I became able to distinguish a recumbent, human−like form in a shroud−like covering on the platform. It seemed altogether a very unusual proceeding, and made me feel extremely uncomfortable; so much so that I considered it prudent to step back behind the bushes, where I could watch the doings of the processionists without being observed.

although standing within fifteen yards of the grave. and in their curiously segmented appearance. but the tight−fitting sleeves reached only half−way to the elbow. but he was straight as an arrow. a large bronze censer. very dark. however.Chapter 1
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Led by the old man−−who carried. for they were certainly utterly unlike any fellow−creatures I had ever encountered before. and after depositing their burden on the grass. fitting closely so as to display the shape of the foot. and rested on a thick straw mat. in most cases. embroidered with yellow flowers. Their garments were also made in a different fashion. the rest of the arm being bare. The color of their dresses varied. and he wore a robe covering the whole body and reaching to the ankles. but his long wide sleeves under his robe were dark red. and from his snowy−white majestic beard I took him to be about seventy years old. was covered with a white cloth. and in the harmonious arrangement of the tints. resembling a long sleeveless jacket. and their luxuriant hair. worn to the shoulders. The other men had no covering on their heads. The uncoffined corpse. of a deep yellow or rhubarb color. but in most cases different shades of blue and subdued yellow predominated. and the outergarment was all in one piece. The women wore garments resembling those of the men. His head was adorned with a dark red skull−cap. All wore low shoes of an orange−brown color. and his free movements and elastic tread were those of a much younger man. On these things. which seemed that of a full−grown man. curious in pattern and color. but in subdued tones. or brazier rather. The entire legs were cased in stockings. and consisted of a kilt−like dress. so that I could not catch their words. I bestowed but a hasty glance. remained standing for some minutes. The old man was tall and spare. In all. the stockings showed deeper and richer shades of color than the other garments. all conversing together. and over it a loose sleeveless vest. reaching below the hips. provided with handles along the sides.
. so profoundly absorbed had I become in watching the group of living human beings before me. apparently to rest after their walk. suspended by thin chains. which came half−way to the knees. they seemed to represent the skins of pythons and other beautifully variegated serpents. a pale yellow shirt fitting tight to the skin. which sent out a thin continuous wreath of smoke−−they came straight on to the pit. was.

in color it was golden black−−that is. his shining white beard being as conspicuous at a distance as a shield or a banner. I found.Chapter 1
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From the moment of first seeing them I had had no doubt about the sex of the tall old leader of the procession. the nose larger. and in some lights it looked like raven−black hair powdered with gold−dust. had eyes of the same hue. and the color. if not sterner. After a first hasty survey of the group in general. Her dress. and in the length of their hair. and strayed in small tendril−like tresses over her neck. but when touched with sunlight every hair became a thread of shining red−gold. but it was very wavy or curly. forehead and cheeks. even a passionate interest. showed a slaty−blue pattern on a straw−colored ground. and also a slight perceptible down on the cheeks and upper lip. while the complexion was a clear dark. were all gayly colored. of the faces and general appearance of this strange people I had stumbled on. but these sweet emblems. but when seen closely they proved to be green−−a wonderfully pure. tender sea−green. albeit a very poor one. She had a quantity of flowers in her hand. in their smooth faces. Her eyes. was a dim or dusky rather than a rosy red. the delicately molded mouth being purple−red instead of the approved cherry or coral hue. and the lips more slender. and the others. As to her features. Her hair fell to her shoulders. for in most places
. while her stockings were darker shades of the same colors. A description of this girl will give some idea. if a garment so brief can be called a dress. The exquisite form and face of this young girl. than in our most beautiful female types. also that the men. which mantled the cheeks in moments of excitement. had faces at all events less mild and soft in expression than the women. appeared black. or nearly black. I had eyes for only one person in it−−a fine graceful girl about fourteen years old. produced a very deep impression. and I continued watching her every movement and gesture with an intense. or of both. but looking at the others I was at first puzzled to know whether the party was composed of men or women. from the first moment of seeing her. On a closer inspection I noticed the difference of dress of the sexes. and the youngest by far of the party. which seemed strange. I observed. black in shade. the forehead was broader and lower. at the distance I stood from her. so much did they resemble each other in height. The color was also different.

and in a few moments the whole was in a fierce blaze. my beloved. but not until she has made the sweet grass and flowers grow again on this spot. the dry brushwood and faggots heaped over it and ignited with a coal from the brazier. stooping. "Oh. "Oh."
. must we now leave you alone forever!" she cried between the sobs that shook her whole frame. and these they had dropped upon the grass on arriving at the grave.Chapter 1
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white flowers are used in funeral ceremonies. others kneeling. Standing around they all waited in silence until the fire had burnt itself out. Some of the men who had followed the body carried in their hands broad. and presently a young man standing by raised her from the ground and drew her gently against his side. Presently the old man stooped and drew the covering back from the dead one's face−−a rigid. The others gathered round. will you come back to us no more!" The others all appeared deeply affected at her grief. marble−white face set in a loose mass of black hair. uttering the one word "Farewell" as they did so. At this moment the the beautiful girl I have described all at once threw herself with a sobbing cry on her knees before the corpse. bent on the still countenance before them a long earnest gaze. where for some minutes she continued convulsively weeping. kissed the face with passionate grief. Each person in turn then advanced and dropped some flowers into the grave. three−cornered bronze shovels. Over the mound the hurdle on which the straw mat had rested was then placed. my love−−my love−−my love. with short black handles. scorched and made desolate with fire. Some of the other men now passed ropes through the handles of the straw mat on which the corpse rested. then the old man advancing stretched his arms above the white and still smoking ashes and cried in a loud voice: "Farewell forever. and some standing. O well beloved son! With deep sorrow and tears we have given you back to Earth. as if taking an eternal farewell of one they had deeply loved. White smoke and crackling flames issued anon from the pile. shall our hearts be healed of their wound and forget their grief. and raising it from the platform lowered it into the foss. and. after which the loose earth was shoveled in with the bronze implements.

and bowing repeatedly to the assembled company. almost leafless shrub. and−−and perhaps a little confused after my fall. but I assure you. My courteous salutation was not returned. seeing me very plainly indeed. I came out and advanced to them. startled eyes fixed on the bush which. Thinking it best to give an account of myself at once. I vainly imagined. continued staring at me as if they were looking on some grotesque apparition. I addressed myself to the old man: "I really beg your pardon. and quite lost." I said. concealed me from view. and to apologize for intruding on their mysteries. ignorant of the fact that the beautiful young girl had her wide−open. "for having disturbed you at such an inconvenient time. and then I felt that fourteen or fifteen pairs of very keen eyes were on me. Putting a bold face on the matter. for in my curiosity and excitement I had come out from the thicker bushes to place myself behind a ragged. removing my battered old hat on the way. with increasing astonishment pictured on their faces. although I did not feel very easy. I met with a serious accident in the mountains over there. I happened to be walking here when I saw you coming. look there! Who is that strange−looking man watching us from behind the bushes?" They all turned. All at once she cried out: "Oh. until the funeral was over. and while you are engaged in these−−these solemn rites. I daresay I am trespassing. but all. and thought it best to step out of the way until−−well. it has been quite accidental. I fell down into a ravine. and find out where I am. father. but I am a perfect stranger here. and I do not know how long I lay there before I recovered my senses. and perhaps you will kindly tell me where to go to get some refreshment. and a great heap of earth and stones fell on and stunned me.Chapter 2
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Chapter 2
The thrilling."
. pathetic tone in which these words were uttered affected me not a little. The fact is. sir. and when the ceremony was over I continued staring vacantly at the speaker. which afforded the merest apology for a shelter.

for without having penetrated into any perfectly savage country." It mortified me just then to find that I had forgotten all the other distinguished Smiths. after a pause of considerable duration. "It rather staggers me to hear that my name−well. and had frequently both sung and recited in public. It was also a surprise to hear that I had a thick speech. and your thick speech. at amateur entertainments. Yokohama. with the natural pride of a Briton. for instance. by the way. during which they all continued regarding me with unabated curiosity. My uncouth garments. and fitted me perfectly." I was rather taken aback at his words. visiting the Colonies. the old gentleman condescended to address me again and asked me my name and country. and I had never yet been told that the name of Smith was an unfamiliar one. "That you are a perfect stranger in this place is evident from your appearance." said the old man in reply." said I.Chapter 2
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"Your story is a very strange one. I had been about the world a great deal for a young man. and−−and several others." His words made me blush hotly. you have not heard of me. of course. your uncouth dress. very dirty. for he was evidently waiting for me to add something more to what I had stated. "nor have I ever heard such a name as yours. although just now they were." "No such country is known to me. "is England. "My country. "I hardly know what to say. and other distant places. but there have been a great many distinguished men of the same name: Sydney Smith.
. since I had always been considered a remarkably clear speaker and good singer. I was thinking only about my name. and my name is Smith. After a distressing interval of silence. of course." he returned. were made by a fashionable West End tailor. although I should not have minded his very personal remarks much if that beautiful girl had not been standing there listening to everything. India." I returned. and yet did not just then by any means realize their full import.

still with that curious smile. "They are all great and illustrious men and women who have a world−wide reputation." I answered. Nelson. nettled at his words and manner. resembles the uneducated vision in its method of judgment. "It would take me until to−morrow to name all the great men I have ever heard of. It sometimes happens that the mind." I answered. Luther. Voltaire?" He still shook his head. Herbert Spencer. Wellington. "Who are all these people you have named?" he asked. "Homer. Adam and Eve!" "I am quite sure that I have never heard of any of these names. Confucius. In such a
. Dante. "Not heard of them!" I exclaimed. "Well. George Eliot. Burne−Jones. and those further away as less important. I added in a burst: "Noah. Calvin. "Nevertheless I can understand your surprise. Columbus. Plato. Hannibal. Gladstone. I suppose you have heard of some of my great countrymen: Beaconsfield. Zoroaster. "Well. Ruskin. with a curious smile. according to their distance. regarding the things which are near as great and important. owing an an imperfect adjustment of its faculties. "No.Chapter 2
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He shook his head. Alexander the Great. Queen Victoria." Then. Lord Randolph Churchill−−" As he continued to shake his head after each name I at length paused. "And are there no more of them−−have you told me the names of all the great people you have ever known or heard of?" he said. Tennyson. Moses." he answered. Bismarck. I suppose you have heard the names of Napoleon. Socrates. and continued watching my face. growing thoroughly desperate. General Gordon. indeed. Darwin. then. Shakespeare." I continued.

which had not proved very satisfactory. hand in hand with the young man who had raised her from the ground. something very simple." like some mere laborer or other common person tramping about the country. The long disconcerting scrutiny I had been subjected to had naturally made me very uncomfortable. however. Presently I thought of something to say. But come. I was absorbed in admiration of her graceful figure. Every time I spoke. our sorrowful task is over. which my dignified old friend would be able to answer without intimating that he considered me a wild man of the woods or an escaped lunatic. and caused me to drop a little behind the others as we walked towards the house. Come with us. I was beginning to hate my legs. Smith. for my companion still maintained the conversation and I was obliged to reply. was now walking just before me. and her lips would twitch and curl a little. my children. but whether from motives of courtesy. I was not anxious to continue the conversation. seeming to express disgust and amusement at the same time. At such times she would also turn her pretty head partially round so as to see me: then her glances. To my mind the garment was quite long enough." I was. pleased with the invitation. and you shall have the refreshment you require. or because he wished to badger me a little more about my uncouth appearance and defective intellect. she hung back a little to catch my words. and−−shall I be forgiven for mentioning such a detail?−−her exquisitely rounded legs under her brief and beautiful garments. let us now return to the house. the beautiful girl I have already mentioned so frequently. and all men in all places are expected to be familiar with their names. for I considered that under them I had as good a pair of calves as any man in the company. of course.
. come to be looked upon as the great and illustrious beings of the world. beginning at my face. or rather my trousers. still kept at my side.Chapter 2
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case the individuals one hears about or associates with. but did not relish being addressed as "Smith. The old man. would wander down to my legs. I was not sure. moreover.

she continued her walk at my side." I said pleasantly. I said: "I daresay we are at cross purposes again. the young girl turned quite round." I added hurriedly. I take it. or hundreds of thousands of houses. or series of questions. for in some cities you might walk all day without getting into the fields. I mean."
. Smith? You shall have as much as you require without disturbing the bees. sir. where one can live very comfortably for years without seeing a blade of grass. for the subject of honey was not in my thoughts. They are now taking advantage of this second spring to lay by a sufficient provision before winter sets in. "What do I mean? Why. where millions of human beings live crowded together in a small space? Of course I mean a small space comparatively. "that we do not exactly understand each other. then. seeing the inquiring look on his face. and how I can get there?" At this question.Chapter 2
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"Can you tell me. "what is the name of your nearest town or city? how far it is from this place. waiting until I was even with her. that you have never even heard of the existence of a city. for I cannot in any other way account for these strange fantasies. The old man looked at me with a grave smile−−that smile was fast becoming intolerable−−and said: "Are you so fond of honey. "that the accident you met with in the mountains must have caused some injury to your brain. and a city like that might be compared to a beehive so large that a bee might fly in a straight line all day without getting out of it. and. is nothing more than a collection or congeries of houses−−hundreds and thousands." "I am afraid." "What. all built close together." "Do you mean seriously to tell me. although still holding her companion's hand. do you mean by a city?" he asked." After pondering some time over these enigmatical words." he returned. a city.

and then added with a grave smile. "At present we do not seem able to understand each other at all. and am even inclined to doubt that you have any. and walked on in silence. The girl looked at me with an expression of pity." "You are right." I exclaimed. This served to rouse a kind of dogged spirit in me. "Surely." "I could not think that. Rome." said I." he answered sternly." I said. "you are at present talking to me in the English language. beginning to see light. and I felt at the same time ashamed and vexed. "I am addressing you in the language of human beings−−that is all."
. "but I hope you don't think I have been indulging in−−well. Why." "Well." "I fail to understand your meaning. we do not. Vienna." said he. it seems awfully puzzling. I had better say as little as possible. but he did not ask me to explain: he had evidently ceased to pay any attention to what I said. "And London! London is the capital of England. Athens. "you have heard of such cities as Paris. I have no doubt that when you have recovered from the effects of your late accident these vain thoughts and imaginations will cease to trouble you.Chapter 2
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It struck me the moment I finished speaking that this comparison was not quite right somehow. and I returned to the subject once more. not to say contempt. perhaps. seeing that I was making matters no clearer." he said. "It would indeed be a clouded mind which could mistake mere disordered fancies for willful offenses against the truth." said I." "And in the meantime. Jerusalem?" He only shook his head." Then. with considerable temper. I added: "I mean that I have not been telling untruths. Babylon. tarradiddles. a little ruffled. and wondering at myself for not having seen it sooner. "although I must allow that this last remark of yours is quite intelligible.

My accident in the hills has not disarranged that part of me. which had no pity or contempt in it. to increase my wonder and delight." said the old man. though I could not detect anything like sarcasm in the tone of the speaker. in that part of our nature where our feelings are. "It seemed strange to Yoletta that one so unlike us outwardly should be so like us in heart." remarked the young man at her side." "Again I understand you. "And yet not strange. somewhat amused at her manner. About some things we stand quite away from each other. "cast yourself on the earth to kiss the cold face of one you had loved in life. but. "It is distressing to talk and not to be understood. how strange!" she exclaimed. and this is. "When I saw you. hearing voices but not able to distinguish words. determined to follow up this new train of ideas on which I had so luckily stumbled. "that we are not so far apart in mind after all." said he approvingly. like the widely diverging branches of a tree. There was something about this speech which I did not altogether like. we have a meeting−place.
." I continued. and I can give you an instance. I am sure. "I think.Chapter 2
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"I'm glad of that." I continued. flashing on me a glance from her green. I felt the tears of sympathy come to my own eyes. while the beautiful girl bestowed on me the coveted reward of a smile. it is like men calling to each other in a high wind. like the branches. I fancy. A little while ago when I was standing behind the bushes watching you all. I saw this young lady−−−−" Here a look of surprise and inquiry from the girl warned me that I was once more plunging into obscurity. and then. she deliberately placed her hand in mine." "Oh." I returned. by way of comment on her words. mysterious eyes.

At the end our way to the house was over a green turf. thick−soled monstrosities in which my feet were cased. which still seems to come back to me like a melody from the distance. with a glance at the old gentleman. which seemed to have a disagreeable fascination for her. then glanced over my whole person. the first sight of the building seen near. It was like a wilderness. nor cultivation of any kind. for he certainly looked aged enough to be her great−grandfather. "you never saw him living−−never heard his sweet voice. The question seemed to surprise her very much. He smiled and said: "You forget. historical and geographical. the survey finishing at my boots. However. It was enough for me to feel that I held that precious hand in mine. lawns. and confine myself to subjects relating to the emotional side of our natures. and it appeared that the house had been raised on the natural foundation of one of these rocks standing a little above the river that flowed behind it. "He is our father. She shivered slightly.Chapter 2
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"And yet. that I am as little known to this stranger to our country as all the great and illustrious personages he has mentioned are to us. and I resolved for the future to avoid all dangerous topics. and the whole rock. when we emerged from the trees. and in my heart I cursed those rusty. tinged with red. covering an acre or so of ground. The stone was gray." "Was he your father?" I asked. we were all on a better footing now." she returned. and as there was no road or path. and the house produced the effect of a noble ruin. It was a hilly stone country where masses of stone cropped out here and there among the woods and on the green slopes." continued the lovely girl. had been worn or hewn down to form a vast platform which stood about a
. She looked at me and smiled. and withdrew her hand from mine. inclosures or hedges near it. among great trees as in a park. and presently I felt tempted to administer a gentle squeeze. my daughter." At this point I began to lose interest in the conversation. came as a surprise. which seemed strange. There were no gardens.

and shaking their heads over such names as Smith or Shakespeare. On the central portion of the building rested a great dome−shaped roof." said he. Englishman−like. like the forest of trees. feeling.Chapter 2
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dozen feet above the surrounding green level. Men in such a position can afford to be as eccentric as they like. burying their friends or relations in a park. By−and−by. all but the old gentleman. and the masses of ancient ivy covering it in places. and resembled a ruin to my eyes because of the extreme antiquity of its appearance. I am also puzzled to understand you. producing the effect of a cloud resting on the stony summit of a hill. he motioned to me to take a seat by his side. but appeared to be quietly enjoying my undisguised surprise and admiration. who still kept with me. I suppose. For are not all houses. wild shrubs. the world we live in. withdrawing to a stone bench under an oak−tree. even to the wearing of Carnivalesque garments. "A glorious place! It must have cost a pot of money. and the main entrance was beneath a lofty portico. "A noble mansion!" I remarked at length to my venerable host. and various flowering plants." I answered. eternal?" "If they stand forever they are so in one sense. to
. the sculptured entablature of which was supported by sixteen huge caryatides. beginning to fear that I had already unfortunately broken the rule I had so recently laid down for my own guidance. resembling ground glass of a pale reddish tint. a sudden great access of respect towards the owner of a big house. the human race. the weather−worn condition and massiveness of the sculptured surfaces. "When you add a long time to build. The sloping and buttressed sides of the platform were clothed with ivy. He said nothing. it was a dwelling−place. standing on round massive pedestals. and taken a long time to build. The building was not high as a castle or cathedral. "But the trees of the forest. shallow steps led up to the house. I remained standing on the grass about thirty yards from the first steps after the others had gone in. Broad." "What you mean by a pot of money I do not know. and had but one floor. which was all of the same material−−reddish−gray stone.

" said I. Trees also decay. or suffer for the loss of individual trees. But the origin of all these things is covered with the mists of time. Their end also. or by the footsteps of many generations of men. Pray. of the materials composing a house?" "Assuredly there is! Even the hardest stone is worn in time by the elements. however substantially built−−" "However what! But never mind. like the end of man. that a house. and the house does not suffer." "I have never looked at it quite in this light before. but it has no connection with the subject we are discussing. albeit the members composing it must all in time return to the dust?" "Is there no decay. the world itself.Chapter 2
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which you compare a house. then. "Yes. and endures forever. moreover." "Does it never happen. and so had the forest. the human race. is to die and return to the dust. finish what you were saying. spring from seed. the mountain. then. but the stone that decays is removed."
. Men pass away. "But surely we can build a house whenever we wish!" "Build a house whenever we wish!" he repeated." he returned. a truth which I do not now hear for the first time. you continue to speak in riddles. do they not? and so have a beginning. but the forest does not die. "it is. and to finish the sentence I added: "Of course. is it not the same with the house and the family inhabiting it. at any rate. you must admit that a house had a beginning?" "Yes. or pull one down if we find it unsuitable−−" But his look of horror here made me pause. with that astonished look which threatened to become the permanent expression of his face−−so long as he had me to talk with. and others take their places. which is one with the house." "That is true.

which seemed to open a simple. but seem silently grateful for being read. Doubtless in falling your head was struck and injured by a stone. and the rest of it. Or perhaps I ought rather to say. Nevertheless.Chapter 2
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"Does it never happen that a house is overthrown by some natural force−−by floods. perhaps I am never so happy as when I have nothing to read. or subsidence of the earth. then. and teach you very patiently. for it is impossible to believe that it has always been in its present pitiable condition. joyfully seizing at once on the suggestion. "But perhaps I was mistaken−−people often are. or throw themselves at your head for a duffer. "You shall read and learn all these things for yourself. I fancied I knew a lot of things once. I can only attribute such a mental state." I answered. and greatly appreciate their gentle." "Are you not. with its disordered fancies about cities. I should like to hear you say something more about all these things−−I mean about the house and the family. I do occasionally look into books." "I am very pleased to hear it. or is destroyed by lightning or fire?" "No!" he answered. able to read−−have you been taught absolutely nothing?" "Oh yes. like a pretty." said he. kindly ways. pleasant way of escape from the difficulty. you shall by reading recall them to your mind. and other things equally frightful to contemplate. and its absolute vacancy concerning ordinary matters of knowledge. And now
." I answered. "Are you alone so ignorant of these things that you speak of building and of pulling down a house?" "Well. They never shut themselves up with a sound like a slap. "I am by no means a studious person. even by a stupid person. to the grave accident you met with in the hills. certainly I can read. Let us hope that you will soon recover possession of your memory and other faculties. with such tremendous emphasis that he almost made me jump from my seat. which is the best method. with a sigh. meek−spirited young girl. or immense hives of human beings.

and the concave roof was deep red in color. it was somewhat somber. Nor. The floor was mosaic of many dark colors. This made me extremely uncomfortable.
. as I discovered later. They did not stare at me. of which there were several. and it was a relief when they began to go out again. saw the expression on their faces. as the light was not strong. As soon as we were inside. and passing through the portico went into the hall by what seemed to me a doorless way. others of some other material. for it is best to refresh the body first. Though beautiful. The spaces between the doors were covered with sculpture. some of colored glass. and noticed that the others who had made my acquaintance at the grave−side whispered in their ears to explain my presence. but with no definite pattern. its material being a blue−gray stone combined or inlaid with a yellow metal. no. but I. was I alone in experiencing such a feeling. that is how it struck me at first on coming in from the bright sunlight. it had a stone and bronze fireplace some twenty or thirty feet long on one side.Chapter 3
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let us repair to the eating−room. and addressing some of the others. of course." The tables were immediately taken away. said: "No. and several tall arched doorways on the other. looked around him. which was five or six feet thick. It was not really so. The hall was the noblest I had ever seen. let us sup this evening where we can look at the sky. and the mind afterwards. the old gentleman. removing his cap and passing his thin fingers through his white hair. who were bringing in small round tables and placing them about the hall. it appeared."
Chapter 3
We ascended the steps. were simply thrust back into receptacles within the wall itself. Now some of those who were in the hall or who came in with the tables had not attended the funeral. the effect being indescribably rich. and these were all astonished on seeing me. the doors. At all events.

slanted the thin branches of some mountain shrub. four exquisite slender girl−forms appeared. its surface ornamented with very large horse−chestnut leaves of brass or copper. Sunshine. but I did not at the time understand the meaning of the symbolic figures appearing in the picture. the third violet. he was of those who had assisted in carrying the corpse. Round the woman's head was a garland of ivy leaves. then on the other. for they varied in shade from bright yellow to deepest copper−red. flying in pursuit of the cloud. the strong wind even now stripping them of their remaining yellow and russet leaves. and he now turned to me and remarked: "You have been a long time in the open air. first pressing on one handle. and the last blue. and she was gazing aloft with expectant face. From the spot where I was−−a distance of forty or fifty feet. stretching up her arms. the sight of which came suddenly before me like a celestial vision. revealing a new thing of beauty to my eyes. Below." I assented. while the sunlight falling through it served also to reveal other beauties which I had
. in her dress. with loose hair. where a great door stood facing the one by which we had entered. This lovely window gave a fresh charm to the whole apartment. and as high as her knees. another yellow. and he rose and walked away to the far end of the hall. Looking back in their flight they were all with the disengaged hand throwing down lilies to the standing figure. and probably feel the change as much as we do. one carried red lilies. It was a double door with agate handles. Each carried a quantity of flowers. for behind the vanished door was a window. Above. stood a graceful female figure on the summit of a gray rock. as if to implore or receive some precious gift from the sky. with loosened dark golden−red hair and amber−colored garments fluttering in the wind. whirling them aloft and away. shaped like lilies. and. or both. held up with the left hand. silver−gray drapery and gauzy wings as of ephemerae. perhaps−−this door appeared to be of polished slate of a very dark gray. wind. and the gauzy wings and drapery of each was also touched in places with the same hue as the flowers she carried.Chapter 3
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One of the men was seated near me. cloud and rain had evidently inspired the artist who designed it. against the slaty−gray cloud−wrack. over the rock. he thrust it back into the walls on either side.

embroidered with yellow flowers. and acorns and crimson berries. hopping and fluttering down towards her outstretched hand. clothed by the frozen moisture as if with a feathery foliage. with silver embroidery on the bosom. "Aha. while she gazed up at them
. for the figure. about his chest hung a garland of flowers mingled with ears of yellow corn. sparkling with rime and icicle. looked misty against the whitey−blue wintry sky. The bull. The garland and blue dress were made of malachite. oak. the distant trees. not with snow. green and russet. until you unsuspiciously placed yourself on his back? That explains the garland. and various precious stones. and the drapery. I recognized. I shall have a word to say about this pretty thing to my learned and very superior host. It was a statue about one−third the size of life. stood the girl. and on each of its eight faces was a picture in which one human figure appeared." The statue stood on an octagonal pedestal of a highly polished slaty−gray stone. Now. and on the twigs were several small snow−white birds. O lovely daughter of Agenor. and various other leaves. that masquerading god. a long flowing robe. on the pale frosted grass. and she was represented playing and singing. was a portrait of the beautiful girl Yoletta. with lowered horns. in a dark maroon dress. but with hoar frost. But were you not gathering flowers. arms and feet were alabaster. my fair Phoenician. of a young woman seated on a white bull with golden horns. when that celestial animal. On her arms were broad golden armlets. ivy. I know you well!" thought I exultingly. The picture was a winter landscape. but with colors more delicate than in nature. from gazing on the statue itself I fell to contemplating one of these pictures with a very keen interest.Chapter 3
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not observed. One that quickly drew and absorbed my attention was a piece of statuary on the floor at some distance from me. and a dark red cap on her head. the face. lapis lazuli. Close to her drooped the slender terminal twigs of a tree. and going to it I stood for some time gazing on it in the greatest delight. She had a graceful figure and beautiful countenance. was blue. appeared walking. the flesh tinted. put himself so cunningly in your way to be admired and caressed. In the foreground. A stringed instrument rested on her knee. "though I never saw you before with a harp in your hand. The earth was white.

" I returned lamely. perhaps. Mistrelde was the last to observe it. indeed." "Yes." "Europa? That is a name I never heard. and that and the resemblance misled you. I hazarded the remark that it was Yoletta's mother. You must know that
. while I stood admiring this most lovely work. with a half−puzzled smile." "Oh." he replied." Then. I doubt that any one in the house ever bore it. and remarked. when I looked at him incredulously. Pointing to the marks or characters which I could not read. I did not want him to go away with that impression. pointing to the statue I have spoken of: "I fancy I know very well who that is−−that is Europa. "though it is very like her. thinking me. "she is painted to the life. a rather dull and ignorant person. and lips parting with a bright. "This portrait was painted four centuries ago." and then. with surprise in his accent. he said: "You have seen the name of Yoletta here. It was formerly the custom of the house for the Mother to ride on a white bull at the harvest festival." he said. and then he turned aside." "This is not Yoletta's portrait. I see. The indifferent way in which he spoke of centuries in connection with this brilliant and apparently fresh−painted picture rather took me aback. smiling: "You have noticed the resemblance. he added: "How could you possibly know unless you were told? No. though I didn't see at all. he pointed to some letters under the picture. perhaps. joyous smile. Presently. Presently he condescended to say something more. the young man I have mentioned as having raised Yoletta from the ground at the grave came to my side and remarked.Chapter 3
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with flushed cheeks." I returned. that is Mistrelde. saying: "Do you not see the name and date?" Finding that I could not read the words.

now bent on me a long. and.
Chapter 4
We came to a large portico−like place open on three sides to the air. and." "Thanks for telling me. which was rather disconcerting. finding that I remained silent.Chapter 4
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there has always been a Yoletta in this house. which ceased on my entrance. The old gentleman. then those who were sitting stood up and the whole company fixed its eyes on me. the roof being supported by slender columns. wondering if it was all true. and when this work was made their portraits were placed on the eight faces of the pedestal. that before you break bread in this house in which
. was a wilderness with rock and patches of tall fern and thickets of thorn and bramble. He then motioned me to follow him. he appeared to be waiting for me to speak. scrutinizing gaze. the Mother. or only a fantastic romance. The ground here sloped rapidly to the banks. This was the daughter of Mistrelde. "Smith. standing in the midst of the people. There was a lively hum of conversation. The people of the house were already assembled. and we quitted that room where it had been decided that we were not to sup. which was not more than a couple of hundred yards from the terrace or platform on which it stood. he finally addressed me with solemnity. with a few trees of great size. standing and sitting by the small tables. splashing and flapping over the surface and uttering shrill cries. like that in the front." I said. We were now on the opposite side of the house and looked upon the river. who died young and left but eight children. Nor was wild life wanting in this natural park. while on the water numbers of wild duck and other water−fowl were disporting themselves." he said−−and I did not like it−−"the meeting with you today was to me and to all of us a very strange experience: I little thought that an even stranger one awaited me. some deer were feeding near the bank.

composed of various vegetables. a kind of supper. It was cold and somewhat bitter to the taste. made. and a confection of crushed nuts and honey. he said in a dissatisfied tone: "My children. and for the present put out of our minds this matter which has been troubling us." I said. with or without a pretty girl at the table. I am not particular about what I eat. in fact. I could have consumed a haggis−−that greatest abomination ever invented by flesh−eating barbarians−−I was so desperately hungry. It was therefore a disappointment when nothing more substantial than a plate of whitey−green. On this particular occasion. notwithstanding the melancholy event which had occupied them during the day. It was. and then added: "I'm sure. let us begin. from the juices of fruits." He had perhaps expected something more or something entirely different from me. sir. but hunger compelled me to eat it even to the last green leaf. then. We had fruits. I suppose. to my great relief other more succulent dishes followed. and the meal was enlivened with conversation. I should have to remind you that you are now in a house. was placed before me by one of the picturesque handmaidens. when I began to wonder if it would be right to ask for more. and so long as I get a bellyful−−to use a good old English word−−I am satisfied. We also had some pleasant drinks. a
. I know I am. but the delicious alcoholic sting was not in them. and looking round him.Chapter 4
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you have found shelter. We sat at table−−or tables−−a long time. too. of unfamiliar flavors." He then motioned me to a seat at his own table. I appreciate your kindness in bringing me here. as he continued standing with his eyes fixed on me. for all now appeared in a cheerful frame of mind. and at noon a crust of brown bread. and the one great meal of the day: the only other meals being a breakfast. as with me good digestion waits on appetite. Then with a sigh. where I was pleased to have a place since the lovely Yoletta was also there. crisp−looking stuff resembling endive." "Yes.

I caught the pretty girl's eye just then. One little fellow. not at all strange." said I. as if greatly alarmed. who had been listening attentively to my words. which I at first took for a green linnet. and drink of milk. with a white throat and mouse−colored wings and tail. and that they were being fed with the fragments. was even prettier. I remarked that it was strange the little birds so persistently avoided me. Smith." "Allow me to interrupt you for one moment. during which I had been too much occupied to take notice of everything that passed. and the wings and tail were tipped with the same hue. "We
. and birds. At the conclusion of the repast. I took them to be sparrows and things of that kind. I wish some kind person would suggest a remedy for this state of things. running almost into orange. also perching quite fearlessly on the heads or shoulders of the company. the throat and bosom being of a most delicate buff. "It is to me a new and very painful experience to walk about the world frightening men. and were briskly hopping over the floor and tables. and out of the room. and being anxious to join the conversation. but they did not look altogether familiar to me." she replied. These pretty little pensioners systematically avoided my neighborhood. and having finished eating. The bird that really seemed most like a common sparrow was chestnut. for I hate to sit silent when others are talking. "They are frightened at your appearance. "Oh no. and recalling the adventures of the morning. but had no sooner done so than it darted away again. crossed with a belt of velvet black. was remarkably like my old friend the robin. Another small olive−green bird. I observed that a number of small birds had flown in.Chapter 4
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handful of dried fruit. only one flew onto my table." "I must indeed appear strange to them. cattle. showing that she too had noticed it. giving it quite a distinguished appearance. most lively in his motions. although I tempted them with crumbs and fruit. with some bitterness. yet I suppose it is entirely due to the clothes I am wearing−−and the boots. with surprising readiness. for just now my greatest desire is to be dressed in accordance with the fashion." said the old gentleman. only the bosom was more vivid.

That I had blundered once more seemed likely enough. "Assuredly you may. "Or. myself included?" A long and uncomfortable silence ensued." he replied with dignity. from the general suspense and the somewhat alarmed expression of the old gentleman's countenance. "This being so. for now. considering the nature of the request. "may I ask you if it is in your power to provide me with the necessary garments. "Only before you speak. and fearing that if I had asked to be directed to the nearest clothing establishment. I at length ventured to remark that I feared he had not understood me to the end. let me put this plain question to you: Do you ask us to provide you with garments−−that is to say. "Yes?" Thus encouraged. having dined. my motives had been good: I had expressed my wish in that way for the sake of peace and quietness." I continued. so that I may cease to be an object of aversion and offense to every living thing and person. to bestow them as a gift on you?"
. rather let me say. I hope not. nevertheless. to see the last of these uncouth garments." "May I explain my meaning?" said I. I dashed boldly into the middle of matter." he answered gravely. Can you explain to us what you mean by dressing in accordance with the fashion?" "My meaning is. that I simply desire to dress like one of yourselves. albeit without wine. which was perhaps not strange. mysterious dress.Chapter 4
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understood what you said so well on this occasion that it seems a pity you should suddenly again render yourself unintelligible. a new fit of amazement would have been the result." I could not help putting a little vicious emphasis on that hateful word. He inclined his head and said. greatly distressed. I was inflamed with an intense craving to see myself arrayed in their rich. Finding the silence intolerable. "Perhaps not.

" I had no sooner spoken than I greatly feared that I had made matters worse. What can you do in return for the garments you are anxious to possess? And here. It had an ancient. I approve highly of your wish to escape.
. or stone." "What do you mean by that? What is money?" "Surely−−−−" I began. and I proceeded to open it and turn the contents on the table." I replied. Besides. but fortunately checked myself in time. turning crimson with shame to think that they were all taking me for a beggar. "I am glad to hear your explanation. "for it has completely removed the unpleasant impression caused by your former words. clay or glass work. but only how to spend it." he answered. let me remark. "All I can do is to buy the clothes−−to pay for them in money. and I accordingly pulled out my big leather book−purse from my breast pocket. But it was really hard to believe that a person of his years did not know what money was. Presently I thought the best way out of the muddle was to show him some. so that I had never learned to define money. I could not answer the question. having always abhorred the study of political economy. since I cannot make them for myself. Do you wish to confine yourself to the finishing of some work in a particular line−−as wood−carving. with the least possible delay. like everything else about me. "My wish is to obtain them somehow from somebody. however. or in making or using colors? or have you only that general knowledge of the various arts which would enable you to assist the more skilled in preparing materials?" "No. musty smell. actually offering to purchase clothing−−ready−made or to to order−−from my host. for I had meant to suggest that he was pulling my leg. a guest in the house. but seemed pretty heavy and well−filled. metal. My fears. proved quite groundless. from your present covering.Chapter 4
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"Certainly not!" I exclaimed. I am not an artist. and to give in return their full value. for all I knew. who. might be one of the aristocracy of the country. for here was I. which tells you all about it. surprised at his question.

on one side with a roughly−executed figure of a woman's head. for all were now gathering round the table. before I was−−I don't know what. or where. "No. Yes. They are all marked alike. feeling greatly disappointed. as you call them. The letters−−if these marks are letters−−are incomprehensible to me. "Have you never seen any like them before?" "Never. unfolding the papers. with the hair gathered on its summit in a kind of ball. I mean−−for a suit of clothes such as you all wear. At length the old gentleman. these eleven are of gold." I answered." "Can you not read the letters?" I asked. seeing that he did not follow me. and whether you have the dollar or the rupee"−−here I paused. then. not a little amused."
." I resumed. if you prefer that−−five of these sovereigns. "I fancy I must have been making ducks and drakes of a lot of cash before−−before−−well. I forget which. rolled out." Little notice was taken of this somewhat incoherent speech. examining the gold and notes with eager curiosity. There are also other things on them which I do not understand. I discovered three five−pound Bank of England notes. everything. and represent. or when. These pieces of metal. are money. and coming down to very plain speaking: "I can give one of these five−pound notes." "Why. so much buying power. I don't know yet what your currency is. or its equivalent in gold.Chapter 4
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Eleven bright sovereigns and three half−crowns or florins. of course. said: "What are these?" "Sovereigns. Let me examine them again. But what have these small pieces of metal to do with the question of your garments? You puzzle me. "My idea is this. "Surely this is very little for me to have about me!" said I. pointing to the gold pieces.

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So great was my desire to possess the clothes that I was about to double the offer. but when I had spoken he dropped the piece he held in his hand upon the table. which struck me as poor. I stared at her." "And yet. "Smith. in an aggrieved tone." I began once more to see light. men and women joining in such a tempest of merriment that one might have imagined they had just heard the most wonderful joke ever invented since man acquired the sense of the ludicrous. although my skill. I knew. in the profound silence which ensued. then. although it was plain to see that he struggled severely at intervals to prevent a relapse. or for a few bits of this metal. and stared fixedly at me. silvery gurgling became audible. a low. "You seemed even to approve of the offer I made. The old gentleman was the first to recover a decent gravity. I do not know anything about wood−carving or using colors. but the only effect of my doing so was a general explosion. surprised at her unseasonable levity."
. would not count for much. swelling louder by degrees until it ended in a long ringing peal of laughter. warbling sound. that you can have garments to wear in return for a small piece of paper. "Surely I did not say that! Surely you possess the strength and skill common to all men. Presently." said he. you said you understood me when I proposed to pay for the things I require. am I to pay for them if all I possess is not considered of any value?" "All you possess!" he replied. "of all the extraordinary delusions you appear to be suffering from. is the most astounding! You cannot exchange these trifles for clothes." said I. and can acquire anything you wish by the labor of your hands. assisted by all the others." I answered: "to go back to that subject. "Ah yes. as of some merry mountain burn−−a sweet. but I might be able to do something−−some work of a simpler kind. This was from the girl Yoletta. sir. because clothes are the fruit of much labor of many hands. How. this. and add that I would give ten sovereigns.

I was pretty sure. I mean) on the heart of that supremely beautiful girl was very strong in me." "I am strong. and the hope that I should be able to create an impression (favorable. Member of Parliament for Wormwood Scrubbs. Perhaps not in−−well. by closing with the offer I should have a year of happiness in her society. but the work I shall have to do in return will not be finished in a day. one difficulty. and the desire to see myself (and to be seen by Yoletta) in those strangely fascinating garments. for if the clothes were given to me at the beginning. being a Liberal when the great change came at the last general election. and many other things to be done. according to the London standard. the Scrubbs proving at the finish a bitter place to him. He was put out in more ways than one. then before the end of the year they would be worn to rags. "and will gladly undertake labor of the kind you speak of. I had always lived comfortably. That I had a decent figure. I was not quite sure that my prospects were really worth thinking about just now.
. and I should make myself a slave for life. and was not a bad−looking young fellow. Certainly. If you will do these things some one else will be released to perform works of skill. for." said he. and pulled about this way and that by the fear of incurring a debt. There is. and tried to comfort himself by saying that there would soon be another dissolution−−thinking of his own. however." This staggered me. My desire is to change these clothes for others which will be more pleasing to the eye. ex−Member. That is to say. spending money. several days. At all events. it would please us more to have you labor in the fields than in the workhouse. and as these are the most agreeable to the worker. Besides. possibly. "A year's labor will be necessary to pay for the garments you require." "No." I answered. I remembered that I had rather looked forward to such a contingency. And there was my dear old bachelor Uncle Jack−−John Smith. being an old man. of course not.Chapter 4
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"There are trees to be felled. and a year of healthy work in the fields could not hurt me. eating and drinking of the best. or interfere much with my prospects. and dressing well−−that is. at once. I was sorely perplexed in mind. he was ignominiously ousted from his seat. land to be plowed.

And perhaps. and the garments you require would be made for you immediately. would settle the matter one way or the other. smiling at my impetuosity. I remember he used to wind up the talk of an evening when I dined with him (and got a check) by saying: "My boy. And now. taking the desperate plunge. and exchanging remarks about them. it would only be to encounter a second Roger Tichborne case." said I. and that sort of thing. and I remembered these things dimly. a year could not make much difference. or to be confronted with the statute of limitations. "If I bind myself to work one year. that you should be differently clothed at once. Anyhow. and I am ready to commence work at once. and the Babylonians and Assyrians." he answered. besides. if I ever should succeed in getting back. like a dream or a story told to me in childhood. whose province it is to make these things. "The daughters of the house.Chapter 4
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thinking how pleasant it would be to have all that money. I looked up: they were all once more studying the coins and notes. it would be very hard to get back from a place where even the name of London was unknown. my son. when recalling the past. and cruise about the world in my own yacht. I seemed to be thinking about ancient history−−Sesostris." "Then." said he. and sometimes. "shall I have to wait until the end of that time before I get the clothes?" The reply to this question. "I should like to have them as soon as possible. And really I had some reason to hope. all this seemed unsubstantial. "It is your wish. Now. and also ours. shall also suspend other work until your garments are finished. you have talents. which seemed an advantage. I thought. "No. and I should also keep my money." Where were those talents now? Certainly they had not made me shine much during the last few hours." "You shall commence to−morrow morning. And. if you'd only use 'em. enjoying myself as I knew how." said I. though it wasn't much. from this evening you are one of the house and one of
.

had. it struck me that my host. and. but the hungry man does not and cannot consider consequences. which gave so great an advantage to a younger but sleek and well−nourished brother. And yet how unlike in that something ethereal in its aspect. Then. In spite of all this. Returning by the hall we went through a passage and entered a room of vast extent. and it was also good to know that the nature of the work I had undertaken would not lower my status in the house. which in its form and great length and high arched roof was like the nave of a cathedral. leaving some of the others still studying those wretched sovereigns. as of a nave in a cloud cathedral. been justified in making on former occasions. taken into account the quantity of food necessary for my sustenance. remembering that I had come to supper with an extravagant appetite. Occupied with these reflections. On his invitation I now rose." was the mental reflection that occurred to me−−one I had not infrequently made. He too rose. I regretted too late that I had not exercised more restraint. for I was now thinking−−deeply: thinking on the terms of the agreement. when proposing terms." I rose and thanked him. and followed him. after looking round on us with a fatherly smile. and Yoletta had followed. went away to the interior of the house. I sat down again and rested my chin on my hand. put by my money. "I daresay I have succeeded in making a precious ass of myself. else a certain hairy gentleman who figures in ancient history had never lent himself to that nefarious compact. I had failed to observe that the company had gradually been drifting away until but one person was left with me−−the young man who had talked with me before. faintly touched with colors of exquisite delicacy. quietly observant. what is more. and. pure white and pearl−gray. And over it all was the roof of white or pale gray glass tinged
. I felt a secret satisfaction in the thought of the clothes.Chapter 5
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us.
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When he was gone. its far−stretching shining floors and walls and columns. and the things which we possess you also possess in common with us.

some were reading. or dais. They were all folios. there was a broad raised place. thought I. and seeing presently that the others were all following their own inclinations." On opening the volume I was greatly surprised to find that it was richly illuminated on every leaf. prepared to follow the advice I had received. and find out by reading all about the customs of this people. which appeared to be an object of almost religious regard with them. and some were conversing. and. but the minute letters. some lying at their ease on straw mats on the floor. Books are grand things−−sometimes. On coming in I had the impression of an empty.Chapter 5
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with golden−red−−the roof which I had seen from the outside when it seemed to me like a cloud resting on the stony summit of a hill. and considering that I had been left to my own resources and that it is a good plan when at Rome to do as the Romans do. especially their ideas concerning The House. I by−and−by ventured to help myself to a volume. somewhere about the center of the room. or giving expression to any more "extraordinary delusions. This would make me quite independent. were incomprehensible to me. These globes varied in size. Beside the couch stood a lectern on which a large volume rested. I bore the disappointment very cheerfully. very much alike in form and thickness. others were occupied with some work in their hands. I could not have paid
. they were sitting and reclining on low couches. with a couch on it. silent place. At one side. the largest being not less than about twelve feet in circumference. besides. I must say. and teach me how to avoid blundering in the future. which I carried to one of the reading−stands. and before him there was a brass box or cabinet. the sound coming to me like a faint murmur from a distance. for I am not over−fond of study. suspended on axles resting on bronze frames. and behind the couch seven polished brass globes were ranged. on which the father was reclining at his ease. I noticed that there were books on a low stand near me. resembling Hebrew characters. the middle only of each page being occupied with a rather narrow strip of writing. yet the inmates of the house were all there.

"I have been watching you for some time. and settle herself on them to do her work. but−−but what a beautiful book it is!" She said nothing in reply. After a while Yoletta came slowly across the room.
. In a distant part of the room I saw her place some cushions on the floor. unfortunately. my children. They appeared to be gifted with an owlish vision. At length he roused himself and looked around him. seemed to make no difference to those who worked or read. and the interior was growing darker by degrees. I feared−−at my ignorance. surrounded with all that distracting beauty of graceful design and brilliant coloring. The father alone did nothing." he said. Oh. not knowing whether to feel flattered or not. of course. and only looked a little surprised−−disgusted. "You are not reading. "When another day has passed over us it will perhaps be different. All the glory seemed now to have gone out of the leaves of the volume." "Have you indeed?" said I. and I continued turning them over listlessly. as I do not understand the letters. perhaps indulging in a postprandial nap.Chapter 5
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proper attention to the text. "No. looking curiously at me. able to see with very little light." she said. glancing at intervals at the beautiful girl. I am forgetting−−you have never heard his name. for instance−−would be tempted to give for it. however. and with keen disappointment watched her moving across the floor. then walked away. The sun had set by this time. I had hoped that she was going to talk to me. the fading light. I can't read this book. but still rested on his couch. who was also like one of the pages before me. and my heart beat fast when she paused by my side. her fingers engaged with some kind of wool−work as she walked. But what a wonderfully beautiful book it is! I was just thinking what some of the great London book−buyers−−Quaritch. "There is no melody in our hearts this evening. wonderful to look at and hard to understand.

the bride of the Father. and such solemn matters. and things of that kind. Thus also does the
. because light and knowledge and love and joy are no longer theirs. He began to read aloud. the words he uttered fell on my ears with a distinctness and purity of sound which made them seem like a melody "sweetly played in tune. it flashed and trembled in points of rainbow−colored light on a tall column. further away. The flame threw a little brightness on the volume. but the greater part of the room still remained in twilight obscurity. For in the irrational world. "The end of every day is darkness. but it dims not his everlasting brightness. but to my mind his theology seemed somewhat fantastical. and his desire and our glory is that we should always and in all things resemble him. there reigns perpetual strife and bloodshed. although it is right to confess that I am no judge of such matters. we that are above all other creatures in the earth should have been at the last more miserable than they. which was his first. the end is not long delayed. and. Here is a part of his discourse:−− "It is natural to grieve for those that die. which did not enlighten me much. and here and there. who is with us. which he now proceeded to open. although he did not seem to raise his voice above its usual pitch. and in its going gives new vigor to the strong that have yet many days to live. which is theirs. but the Father of life through our reason has taught us to mitigate the exceeding bitterness of our end. I understood him little better. but they grieve not any more. between the different kinds. otherwise." Some one then rose and brought a tall wax taper and placed it near him.Chapter 5
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To−night the voice so recently stilled in death forever would be too painfully missed by all of us. Thus the life that has lasted many days goes out with a brief pang. the strong devouring the weak and the incapable. and when he spoke about our conduct and aims in life. and when failure of life clouds the brightness of that lower soul. There was also a great deal about the house." The words he read related to life and death. being now asleep on the lap of the Universal Mother. sharing our sorrow. being too rhapsodical.

know without reason that we are highest on the earth. being like the Father. "We only. for in all his works. and unworthy of those that are made in the image of the Father of life. has this purpose only: for all knowledge and invention and labor having any other purpose whatsoever is empty and vain in comparison. the majesty of the Father. and lose all their rage in our presence. but not forever.
. and the taste lose its discrimination. and for herself a new garment. All the knowledge we seek. when life is a burden and we remember our mortality. we labor to make for ourselves a worthy habitation.Chapter 5
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ever−living earth from the dust of dead generations of leaves re−make a fresh foliage. that the letters we have written perish not with us. For just as the bodily senses may become perverted. we hasten the end. so is the mind capable of seeking out new paths. and satisfies and leaves no taste of bitterness on the palate. and is scarcely tasted when in our last moments we remember that our labor has borne fruit. and the labor of our hands. the beauty of the world and of the house. that those we love may cease to sorrow at the sight of our decline. to leave all things−−the love of our kindred. and are without enemies in the earth. the invention and skill we possess. we learn the will of him that called us into life. and we know that this is his will who called us into being. and gave us life and joy on the earth for a season. and. the labor in which we take delight. which have not reason. like him. alone of all his works. for even the lower kinds. and we that live and labor in it are the image of our Father who made the world. Therefore. and that knowledge which is like pure water to one that thirsts. and a knowledge which leads only to misery and destruction. This is his desire. and see in us. slay not nor are slain. "For the house is the image of the world. when the night is near. and live in the house forever. but the bitterness endures not. "It is better to lay down the life that is ours. to go forth and be no more. so that the hungry man will devour acrid fruits and poisonous herbs for aliment. which shall not shame our teacher. of all things having life. but remain as a testimony and a joy to succeeding generations.

and were crazed. and death releases them from their misery. for earth had covered all their ruined works with her dark mold and green forests. like clouds of winged ants that issue in the springtime from their breeding−places. and. The madness of their minds preyed on their bodies. but nowhere did they find any trace or record of those that had passed away. by seeing much they become afflicted with blindness. for they perished miserably. but were like shipwrecked men on a lonely and barren rock in the midst of the sea. devoured of worms.Chapter 5
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"Thus we know that in the past men sought after knowledge of various kinds. but of the bitter wave. and drink of no sweet spring. and worms were bred in their corrupted flesh: and these. filled the race of men in all places with corruption and decay. "But their vain ambition lasted not. and drink again. who are consumed with thirst. and while their knowledge grew apace. "Of the human race only a small remnant survived. flew out in the breath of their nostrils. until madness possesses their brains. changed their forms. and. flying from body to body. both in man and in beast. Thus by increasing their riches they were made poorer. For in their madness they hoped by knowledge to gain absolute dominion over nature. and the end of it was death. But they know not their poverty and blindness. forgetting the limits that are set to his faculties. and were not satisfied. these being men of an humble mind. Nor is it known to us when this destruction fell upon
. asking not whether it was for good or for evil: but every offense of the mind and the body has its appropriate reward. being inflamed with the desire to learn the secrets of nature. and after long centuries they went forth into the wilderness of earth and repeopled it. even as a man hides unsightly scars on his body with a new and beautiful garment. seeking in the living tissues of animals for the hidden springs of life. that better knowledge and discrimination which the Father gives to every living soul. gazes steadfastly on the sun. after feeding on their tissues. hesitating not to dip their hands in blood. like one who. was taken from them. and becoming winged. and drink again. who had lived apart and unknown to their fellows. thereby taking from the Father of the world his prerogative. and the Mother of men was thus avenged of her children for their pride and folly. and thirst. Thus did they thirst.

we only know that the history thereof was graven an hundred centuries ago on the granite pillars of the House of Evor. so is he reflected in our minds. "But to mankind there shall come no second darkness of error. thus. and the walls and floor and roof of his dwelling are covered with a new glory. the blackness and the lightnings of the tempest. and in the blue heavens powdered with stars. in the sounding walls of the ocean. and for the glory which he has in his work we have a like glory in ours. since we had now continued long in this even mind. and have brought a record of these things. the shadows and the many−colored mists. seeking only to inform ourselves of his will. and snow. Morning and evening throughout the various world. and in the world his co−workers. and green and yellow leaf. but the sounds of joy and melody. we read his thoughts and listen to his voice. therefore do we. in the procession of the seasons. his are also the silver rain and the rainbow. but in many houses throughout the world have they been written for the instruction of all men and a warning for all time. from day to day and from season to season do all things change their aspect. borrow nothing one
. the sea with its tides. and changeful winds. and in the Father's House there shall be no second desolation. in mountain and plain and many−toned forest. nor in our house only are they known. which he flings like a mantle over all the world. or as a glassy lake reflecting within itself the heavens and every cloud and star. Here do we learn with what far−seeing intelligence he has laid the foundations of his everlasting mansion. until as in a clear crystal without flaw shining with colored light. But to us it is not given to rise to this supreme majesty in our works. "He is our teacher. like him yet unable to reach so great a height. nor seeking after vain knowledge. shall be heard everlastingly. which were silent.Chapter 5
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the race of men. and that the foundations and walls shall endure for ever: yet loves not sameness. For the sunlight and moonlight and the blueness of heaven are his. and in the billowy seas through which we pass in peril from land to land. on the plains between the sea and the snow−covered mountains of Elf. Thither in past ages some of our pilgrims journeyed. and in the house we are his viceregents. Herein do we learn that he loves a stable building. and with what prodigal richness he has decorated all his works. how skillfully he has builded its walls.

and we go forth for a long period. so does the aspect of the world alter as we progress from day to day. is like a round lake set about with hills. and they are in the library of the house in the seven thousand volumes of the Houses of the World which our pilgrims have visited in past ages. for just as the day changes every hour. changeless and eternal in itself. there is compensation for every weariness. so that every habitation. at the beginning of our journey to the far south. and we are his witnesses in the earth. For once in a lifetime is it ordained that a man shall leave his own place and travel for the space of ten years. "When the time for this chief adventure comes. shall yet differ from all others. taking pleasure in his works. and thistles. which seems barren and desolate to our sight. which have hotter suns and a greater variety than ours. and sere tufts of grass. and the blue mists of an abundant moisture. And in all the earth there is no land without inhabitants. from the morning to the evening twilight. and blustering winds rush
. delight not to work without witnesses. with the family which inhabits it. knowing that this is pleasing to the Father: for we. accustomed to the deep verdure of woods and valleys. in their conversation and the arts in which they excel.Chapter 5
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from the other. There a stony soil brings forth only thorns. and seeing that which is nearest. but the Father of men inhabits all. and every house. that are made like him. "Thus. with absence of kindred and the sweet shelter of our own home: for now do we learn the infinite riches of the Father. "These things are written for the refreshment and delight of those who may no longer journey into distant lands. give a special color of nature to their lives and their houses. where we go to look first on those bright lands. and also seeking out those of which no report has reached us. visiting the most famous houses in every land he enters. having its own special beauty and splendor: for we inhabit one house only. even as he also does in ours. whether on wide continents or islands of the sea. and in all nature there is no grandeur or beauty or grace which men have not copied. but in each house learn separately from him alone who has infinite riches. and in all places our fellow−men. wherein may be seen that visible world. we come to the wilderness of Coradine. learning as we do from him only.

and. and the whiteness and grace. and the flight of the gull. like thistle−down chased by eddying winds. is drawn from field to field by milk−white bulls with golden horns. and our lips and hands make undying music. going on our way from house to house. and the winged seed of the thistle. all those things in which we ourselves excel seem poor in comparison. flowering in foam. and the white−winged bird flying from the black tempest screams aloud in their shadowy halls. from the high terraces. and the fame of which has long gone forth into the world. which is the chief glory of the House of Coradine. yet ever to return again with changeful melody and new measures. when another is seen. to gladden the hearts of those that hear it all their lives long. and a swiftness and grace which they alone possess. on the threshold of the wind−vexed wilderness. And. rising like bright−winged insects from our lowly state to a higher life of glory and joy. and seem to melt into the moonlight. grow pale in the mind. seeing this. where the rough−haired goats huddle for warmth. when the sun−ripened fruits have been garnered. There dwell the children of Coradine. where the stupendous columns of green glass uphold the roof of the House of Coradine. and coming and going they pass away. and the inland−blowing wind brings to them the salt spray and yellow sand swept at low tide from the desolate floors of the sea. and made part of his life. then her children are
. There. have taught them this art. becoming pale in our memories. For the winds and waves. now whirling in a cloud. and there is no melody save the many−toned voices of the wind and the plover's wild cry. the ocean's voice is in their rooms. Then the august Mother. we learn how everywhere the various riches of the world have been taken into his soul by man. and the light of the moon on sea and barren land. now scattering far apart. when. For then do we rejoice beyond others. so that from many distant lands pilgrims gather yearly to our fields to listen to our harvest melody. in shining garments of gossamer threads. having also an art and chief excellence which is ours only. Nor are we inferior to others. which is ours for the space of three whole days. and the storm−vexed sea. "Yet does this moonlight dance. has been ever with them.Chapter 5
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over the unsheltered reaches. arrayed like no others. we see the children of Coradine gathered together. in a brazen chariot. and is speedily forgotten. they dance their moonlight dances on the wide alabaster floors. when the moon is at its full.

like those that have been. "This shall be the chief glory of our house for ever. "In ancient days the children of our house conceived it in their hearts. and they whispered it to one another when it was no louder than the whisper of the wind in the forest leaves. and as we. and after a while I gave up trying to make out
. hearing it in all nature's voices. and made their mystery and melody ours. are mingled with the nature we come from. and the light west wind.Chapter 6
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gathered about her in shining yellow garments. seek far off in caverns of the hills and in the dark bowels of the earth for minerals and dyes that outshine the flowers and the sun. were for the initiated. and as the Builder of the world brings from an hundred far places the mist. and not for me. to beautify the walls of our house. and we that are now living. his humbler followers. they cast themselves upon the earth and worship the Father of the whole world. overcoming their hearts. and the fame of it in all lands has caused our house to be called the House of the Harvest Melody. and when the yearly pilgrims behold our procession in the fields." like that harvest melody he spoke of. until. and worship the Father of the world. and the cry of the passage−bird. with armlets of gold upon their arms. and with voice and instruments of forms unknown to the stranger. and the sunshine. but for a considerable time. when a thousand years have gone by. and bless the august Mother of the house."
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The reading went on. not of course "for ever. The words. until this great song was perfected in our hearts. from whose sacred womb ever comes to it life and love and joy. all the glory of the world seems to pass before them. and speak to our children only in the wind's voice. they make glad the listening fields with the great harvest melody. to rejoice. bursting into tears and loud cries. and listen to our song. pilgrims shall still come to these sun−bright fields. to give to the morning hour its freshness and glory. and the harvest melody that shall endure for ever. I concluded. and it was with them day and night. so everywhere by night and day for long centuries did we listen to all sounds. and the dew.

working. had struck me as almost of the nature of a religious service. there was really no mother of the house in the sense that there was a father of the house: that is to say. Just as I had been absorbed before in that beautiful book without being able to read it. penetrative voice. After thinking the matter over. one possessing authority over the others and calling them all her children indiscriminately. but the subdued talking and moving about did not interfere with one's pleasure in the old man's musical speech any more than the soft murmur and flying about of honey bees would prevent one from enjoying the singing of a skylark. sweet. experiencing a singular pleasure without properly understanding the sense. and in their fascinating dress.Chapter 6
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what it was all about. I had regarded as a mere legend or fable of antiquity. Emboldened by what I saw the others doing. Those last expressions I have quoted about the "august Mother of the house" were unintelligible. Yet this mysterious non−existent mother of the house was continually being spoken of. I came to the conclusion that "mother of the house" was merely a convenient fiction. the color of their eyes and hair. and occasional conversation. and simply stood for the general sense of the women−folk. that they most differed from others. and I could not but think that. they had struck me as being utterly unlike any people ever seen by me. and appeared to me meaningless. stealing through the gloom with great caution to avoid making a clatter with those abominable boots. but the story of Mistrelde. or something of the sort. as I found now and afterwards when I listened to the talk around me. I have said. I left my seat and made my way across the floor to Yoletta's side. In their rare physical beauty. The reading. everything went on as before−−reading.
. But it was perhaps in their clear. which sometimes reminded me of a tender−toned wind instrument. leaving only eight children. who died young. compared with the speech of this people. so now I listened to that melodious and majestic voice. To return to the reading. it was thick. nevertheless. I remembered now with a painful feeling of inferiority that my thick speech had been remarked On earlier in the day. It was perhaps stupid of me. I had already come to the conclusion that however many of the ladies of the establishment might have experienced the pleasures and pains of maternity.

" As she made no reply. the other in holding your hand. and then began my trouble. Ellen Terry's acting. There was. "But you may hold it for a little while. for I was greatly perplexed to know what to say to her. especially the sweet and important feeling of love. but she encouraged me with a smile and placed a cushion for me." "Oh. proceeded to give a minute and prolonged scrutiny to her work. and." "It is very pretty work−−may I look at it?" She handed the stuff to me. or. and the opportunity to make a pretty little speech. this is such easy work I could do it in the dark. Then I remembered that ground. but instead of taking it in the ordinary way.Chapter 6
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"May I sit down near you?" said I with some hesitation. which was not at all graceful. I settled myself down in the most graceful position I could assume. taking no notice of the compliment. I added somewhat lamely: "May I−−keep on holding it?" "That would prevent me from working. the light is good enough. doubling my objectionable legs out of her sight. private theatricals. at any rate. "Besides. the Royal Academy Exhibition. and twenty things besides." said I. I began to fear. and I think the last pleasure even greater than the first." she answered. of our human feelings. no common ground on which we could meet and exchange thoughts. holding up cloth and hand together. words."
. "One is in seeing your work." she answered. with the utmost gravity. but they all seemed unsuitable subjects to start conversation with in this case. I placed my hand under hers. But how was I to lead up to it? The work she was engaged with at length suggested an opening. "to enable you to work in such a dim light. "Do you know that I am enjoying two distinct pleasures at one and the same time?" said I. common and broad enough. I thought of lawn−tennis and archery. "Your sight must be as good as your eyes are pretty.

but is that strange−−are not all people beautiful?" I thought of certain London types. and then. without the customary prefix. that is my name−−what else should you call me?" she returned." "Yes." I exclaimed." and of the old women with withered. and presently. do not make such an outcry! You don't know what a hobble you'll get me into. "But it is only right that you should have a pretty name. Smith. I apologized for hurting her. for goodness sake. no notice was taken of the exclamation. "Oh. if I may tell you. though it was hard to believe that her words had not been overheard.
. "I am so sorry I hurt you. all at once remembering that she had called me Smith. thank you. evidently with surprise. only my hand hurts. because to−day when I pressed it on the ground beside the grave I ran a small thorn into it. because you are so very beautiful." I pressed it warmly. especially among the "criminal classes. "Why.Chapter 6
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"Oh. "It is a pretty name. "please. "You did not really squeeze hard." she returned gently." I stammered. whereupon she cried out aloud: "Oh. recovering from my fright. and hoped she would forgive me. to make the most of my precious "little while." Fortunately. Yoletta−−may I call you Yoletta?" said I." I answered. and so sweet on the lips that I should like to be repeating it continually. you are squeezing too hard−−you hurt my hand!" I dropped it instantly in the greatest confusion. delighted with the privilege. because−−well. "There is nothing to forgive. simian faces and wearing shawls." Then the remembrance of that scene at the burial brought a sudden mist of tears into her lovely eyes.

much as I wished to do so. I allow. remembers the other's infirmity." she answered. as if able to read my thoughts. you will allow." "Ah. then it faded." "Oh. and afterwards how often I noticed that same change in her. then. just as there are degrees of light. with a bright smile which made me think that perhaps my little speech had pleased her. I could wish for no greater pleasure than to sit here listening to you the whole evening. But for a few moments after speaking. and I felt that I could not agree with her. she continued regarding me with that bright.
. and in the others too−−that sudden silence and clouding of the face. without straining my conscience. spiritual smile on her lips. and also of some people of a better class I had known personally−−some even in the House of Commons. I did not ask her to tell me. evading the question. I was not going to disagree with her any more." she replied. and then. "At all events." This seemed to reverse the usual idea. I am sorry I must leave you now. that the more beautiful the person is the more he or she gets loved." said I. and some people seem more beautiful to us than others. "that there are degrees of beauty. and her face clouded and her glance fell. such as may be seen in one who freely expresses himself to a person who cannot hear. with the air of a philosopher. "Do you wonder why I smile?" she added. The best loved are always the most beautiful. but it is very faint compared with the noonday light when the sun is shining. the reason of that change. and only said: "How sweetly you talk. However. Yoletta.Chapter 6
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slinking in or out of public−houses at the street corners. but that is only because we love them more. "There are different kinds of beauty. "It is because I have often heard words like yours from one who is waiting for me now. nor did I ask myself. You may be able to see to work in this light." This speech caused me a jealous pang. you are as wise as you are beautiful. there is not so great a difference between people as that. all at once but too late.

that being alone simply meant being separated from her. glad to find that with Edra it was all plain sailing." "You have had some trouble to−day. and going away returned presently with another lady. alas! some one I greatly hated was waiting for her. and. I mean−−to have some very nice person to talk to. will fail to understand anything I may say." I said. for me. exist in no other. although their brains are smaller. but then quality is more important than mere quantity. "It must be patent to every one that women have far quicker. "I sometimes think that women can understand even more readily than men." "There's not a doubt of it!" I returned warmly." I could not tell her that she had taken my words too literally. But what in the name of goodness was I to say to this beautiful woman who was sitting by me? She was certainly very beautiful. no. but there was no help for it. but the divine charm in the young girl's face could. pleased at her ready intelligence. Presently she opened the conversation by asking me if I disliked being alone." She assented. "some people hold that women ought not to have the franchise. you shall not be alone." I continued. with a charming smile. perhaps not exactly that. "What shall I do alone?". or
. "but I think it much jollier−−much more pleasant. "Well. and some one. I added: "And it is particularly pleasant when you are understood. or suffrage. "Oh." she replied. "She will take my place by your side and talk with you." she returned. her age being about twenty−seven or twenty−eight. I could only thank her and her friend for their kind intentions." she said simply. But I have no fear that you. And yet. at any rate. with a far more mature and perhaps a nobler beauty than Yoletta's.Chapter 6
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"Must you go?" I only said. "This is Edra. finer intellects than men.

I was conducted (without a flat candlestick) along an obscure passage. I added: "But I am so glad to hear you call me Smith. It is very kind of you. There was no light for me except the light of the stars. "Well. then. and I only hope they'll never get it. then. but what I said was of no consequence. leading past a great many doors placed near together. at right angles with the first." "But surely your name is Smith?" said she." she returned. and when I had groped my way to the dark interior." she replied. for directly opposite the door by which I had entered
. was nothing but a series of entanglements. I suppose not. and introducing a new one.Chapter 7
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whatever it is! Not that I care two straws about the question myself. my name is Smith: only of course−−well. but then I think it is so illogical−−don't you?" "I am afraid I do not understand you. These. my conductor pushed back the sliding−panel. I'm sure. no." I replied. "Oh yes. or sleeping−cells. lighter passage. looking more bewildered than ever. a second broader. wishing to make a fresh start. I ascertained later. I was just wondering what to call you. looking very much surprised. Having reached the door of my box. looking much distressed. Smith. to which I had been looking forward with considerable interest as one likely to bring fresh surprises. from which I could only escape in each case by breaking the threads of the subject under discussion. arrived at last: it brought only extreme discomfort." "My name is Edra. were the dormitories. the tact is. and were placed side by side in a row opening on the terrace at the back of the house. which had begun so favorably. It makes it so much more pleasant and homelike to be treated without formality.
Chapter 7
The moment of retiring. closed it again behind me. and from that moment the conversation.

open wide to the night. I groped about until I Was rewarded by discovering a narrow bed. sniffed at my face. The prospect was the one I had already seen−−the wilderness sloping to the river. erect ears. but not to sleep. I was just falling into a doze when a sound as of a person coming with a series of jumps into the room disturbed me. and with my moldy tweeds for only covering I laid me down. He was intently watching me. and the black masses of large trees. though they were not broken. Then he stood up. but as he sat so still I refrained. I murmured a little prayer. a kind of woolen sleeping garment. or cot of trellis−work. The night air blew in cold and moist. I thought. folded small. and the wailing note of some mournful−minded water−fowl. reflecting the stars. sitting on the floor. and was about to utter a loud shout to summon assistance. on which was a hard straw pallet and a small straw pillow. Too tired to keep out of even such an uninviting bed. and feeling my forehead growing remarkably moist in spite of the cold. and made it impossible to sleep. There was no sound save the hooting of an owl in the distance. to my inexpressible relief. with large. Then he turned and glared at me again. It was getting beyond a joke: but then all this seemed only a fit ending to the
. When I looked again the brute had vanished. advancing deliberately to my side. and the glassy surface of the broad water. but I soon remembered that I had seen no dogs about. It seemed very astonishing that an animal like a wolf should come into the house. also. About midnight. which made my bones ache. and closing my eyes. went back to the door and sniffed audibly at it. and finally. his round eyes shining like a pair of green phosphorescent globes. prowling beasts could come in with impunity. in fact−−the wind blew on my face and bare feet and legs. and feeling very sleepy and miserable. I flung off my clothes. and began even to hope that he would go quietly away. It was all over with me now. so that all kinds of savage. and thinking that he was about to relieve me of his unwelcome presence. which was apparently not intended ever to be closed.Chapter 7
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stood another. a great beast much too big for a dog. I dropped my head on the pillow and lay perfectly still. The misery of it! for although my body was warm−−too warm. Having no weapon. and starting up I was horrified to see. I was at the brute's mercy.

with wolves for visitors at all hours of the night. "am I a rational being or an inebriated donkey. and his wife. Moreover. a meek and loving spirit. that was all excellent acting about my extraordinary delusions. and all for a few barbarous rags! I don't know much about plowing and that sort of thing. no. and it comforted me as much as if an angel with shining face and rainbow−colored wings had paid me a visit in my dusky cell: "Unto Adam also. just before my accident−−in a biological work. milk−glands and a hairy covering. "Goodness gracious!" I exclaimed. for in that type. and that would be fifty−two pounds for a suit of clothes. a hewer of wood and drawer of water. my venerable friend. as every one knows.Chapter 7
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perfectly absurd arrangement into which I had been induced to enter. and to have become psychical as well as physical. Who ever heard of such a thing! Wolves and all thrown in for nothing! I daresay I shall have a tiger dropping in presently just to have a look round. These things had entered into my soul. the fondness for this
. sitting bolt upright on my straw bed." as I had blasphemously called them. and I had conceived such an intense longing to wear them! Was it a very contemptible ambition on my part? Is it sinful to wish for any adornments other than wisdom and sobriety. and sleep on a miserable straw mat in an open porch. that first correlation. and the rest of it. What! be a field laborer. appears to have entered the very soul of creatures of this class. but I suppose any able−bodied man can earn a pound a week. Those strange garments had looked so refreshingly picturesque. and other things of the kind? Straight into my brain flashed the words of a sentence I had recently read−−that is to say." Presently I remembered two things−−divine Yoletta was the first. No. did the Lord God make coats of skin and clothed them. but I am not going to be carried so far by them as to adhere to such an outrageously one−sided bargain. and shows at present no sign of becoming obsolete. to have consented to such a proposal? It is clear that I was not quite in my right mind when I made the agreement. which is only for a while inferior to the angels. and had become a part of me−−especially−−well. or what. and I am therefore not morally bound to observe it. namely. a custom among the race of men. both. good works. This has become. and the second was that thought of the rare pleasure it would be to array myself in those same "barbarous rags.

"Eutheria of the Eutheria. must we go on for ever scraping our faces with a sharp iron. how many years of toil would be required to win Yoletta's hand? Naturally. the cold night wind blowing on me. whatever that may mean. in repulsive black−−we. What had I to give in return for such a boon as that? Only that strength concerning which my venerable host had spoken somewhat encouragingly. and the smoke of its torment ascend for ever and ever! And having thus. brought my mind into this temper. until they are blue and spotty with manifold scrapings. Jacob−−namely. the noble of the noble?" And all for what. But her hand−−ah. A whole year was mine in which to love her and win her gentle heart. That is a touch of nature I can thoroughly appreciate−−the kissing. beautifully. and saw myself (clothed and in my right mind) sitting at Yoletta's feet." not merely to clothe the body.Chapter 7
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kind of outer covering is a strong. a million curses take it−−respectability. whose name is familiar to most. The hard bed. perhaps. and lifted up his voice and wept. History repeats itself−−with variations. but I could scarcely trade on that. Once more I gave loose to my imagination. tranquil life from her precious lips. at this juncture. And Jacob kissed Rachel. Oh. I mean. may it sink into the bottomless pit. but to clothe it appropriately. And if a whole year's labor was only sufficient to pay for a suit of clothing. my wolfish visitor. but why he
. I once more finally determined to have the clothes. It made me quite happy to end it in this way. I began to draw a parallel between my case and that of an ancient historical personage. then. like mutes at a funeral. were all forgotten. and religiously to observe the compact. A "strong and ineradicable passion. that was another matter. by taking thought. He had also been so good as to mention my skill. O biologist of the fiery soul! It was a delight to remember them. and cropping our hair short to give ourselves an artificial resemblance to old dogs and monkeys−−creatures lower than us in the scale of being−−and array our bodies. here called Yoletta. since it pleases not heaven nor accords with our own desires? For the sake of respectability. Smith−−cometh to the well of Haran. that is to say. learning the mystery of that sweet. He taketh acquaintance of Rachel. I mean. ineradicable passion!" Most true and noble words. This being so. and by so doing please God and ourselves.

for I was now a member of an early−rising family. like Jacob. if it comes to it. and thus I questioned. I beheld a curious and interesting spectacle. however tender−eyed: but for divine Yoletta I could serve seven years. I am glad to have no such startling piece of information to give to the object of my affections: we are not even distant relations. according to my notions. tossing and turning on my inhospitable hard bed. and her age being.Chapter 8
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wept I cannot tell. especially if I should. I resolved to say nothing about my nocturnal visitor.
. until merciful sleep laid her quieting hands on the strings of my brain. and." Now I wonder whether the matter will be complicated with Leah−−that is. thy younger daughter". not wishing to begin the day by furnishing fresh instances of what might seem like crass stupidity on my part. Edra? Leah was considerably older than Rachel. for I would rather you should have her than some other person. we are so far well suited to each other. and fourteen. yea. have to begin with the wrong one. unless it be because he was not an Englishman. and the old gentleman answered: "Abide with me. to my inexpressible disgust. Down the broad steps leading to the water the people of the house were hurrying. Thus I mused. tender−eyed. say. I do not aspire or desire to marry both. and flinging themselves like agile. and anxious to conform to rules. I also found that if I had turned up the little stray bed I should have had warm woolen sheets to sleep in.
Chapter 8
Fortunately I woke early next morning. fifteen. and said: "I will serve thee seven years for Yoletta. and peeping out. There was ventilation enough without having the place open to prowling beasts of prey. like Edra. While occupied with these matters I began to hear people moving about and talking on the terrace. by simply pulling a sliding panel. and mine twenty−one. And Jacob told Rachel that he was her father's brother. Smith covenanted! for Yoletta. that I might easily have closed it in the way I had seen the other door closed. and hushed their weary jangling. On going to the door I found.

And presently from other sleeping−rooms on a line with mine shot forth new bewitching forms. There. and the company very agreeable. told me to walk towards it until I came to a plowed field on the slope of a valley. tender morning light I could not help contrasting my own repulsively ugly garments with the bright and beautiful costumes worn by the others. I felt happy and strong that morning. very hopeful about that affair of the heart. Before leaving me he took from his own person a metal dog−whistle. ladies and gentlemen all swimming and diving about together with the unconventional freedom and grace of a company of grebes. After the meal a small closed basket was handed to me. and nimbly running and leaping down the slope. and in the clear. pointing to a belt of wood about a mile away. After dressing. but without explaining its use. Happiness. where I could do some plowing. however. risking my neck in my desire to imitate the new mode of motion I had just witnessed. very able and willing to work in the fields. and hung it round my neck. is seldom perfect. the streaky rasher from the dear familiar pig. which concealed no beauteous curve beneath. I also missed the fragrant cup of coffee. and. his long. with a string attached.
. they quickly joined the masculine bathers. after breakfast. and one of the young men led me out to a little distance from the house. The water was delightfully cool and refreshing. and filling the green world with new light. but these lesser drawbacks were soon forgotten. and quickly started after the others. my venerable host was already disporting himself. just when the red disk of the sun was showing itself above the horizon. each sparsely clothed in a slender clinging garment. then. better than all. silvery beard and hair floating like a foam on the waves of his own creating. Looking about I soon found a pretty thing in which to array myself. kindling the clouds with yellow flame. in the midst of his family. happy morning mood. the well−flavored cigar. we assembled in the eating−room or portico where we had supped. which seemed to harmonize so well with their fresh.Chapter 8
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startled frogs on the bosom of the stream. and.

staring and snorting as if alarmed or astonished. and after half an hour's walk found the spot indicated. primitive thing. turning. however. and a stone bottle of milk. after having exhausted their superfluous energy. with more than needful caution. Two noble−looking horses. going off to one side. an implement I knew very little about. Approaching swiftly to within fifty yards they stood still. resembling those I had seen the day before. turn round and stare at me. conciliatory sounds and words the while. nor did these superb animals seem to think any were wanted. It looked as if these animals had come at my call to do the work. neighing in a sharp. Dobbin. owing to my inadvertence. over the dewy grass." in a tone of command. Then. it would go off at a tangent or curve quite out of the ground. lying in the furrow. consisted of brown bread. and as
. but occasionally. and being unable to draw the plow myself as well as guide it. and then. I found. There being no horses or bullocks to do the work.Chapter 8
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Basket in hand I went away. with an upright pole to guide it. and emitted a most shrill and piercing sound. as I expected. and there were also some long ropes attached to a cross−stick at the end of the beam. balanced on the other by a couple of small wheels. and then began dragging the plow. there also. then. I began to amuse myself by blowing on the whistle. marched back. This particular plow. but went straight away to a distance of thirty yards. As long as I held the pole straight the share cut its way evenly through the mold. ringing manner. When the first furrow was finished. I found the plow. using many soothing. I sat down leisurely to examine the contents of my basket. and finally. which. they did not double back. which very soon produced an unexpected effect. and said "Gee up. after which they swept round me three or four times. and after a little further study I discovered how to adjust the ropes to them. a metal share in the center. followed by some inarticulate clicks with the tongue. touching their noses together seem to exchange ideas on the subject. There were no blinkers or reins. whistling light−heartedly. I therefore approached them. appeared to be a simple. came galloping towards me as if in response to the sound I had made. not knowing what else to do. they rewarded me with a disconcerting stare. cutting a fresh furrow parallel with the first. dried fruit. but after I had taken the pole in my hand. they walked to the plow and placed themselves deliberately before it. and whenever this happened the horses would stop. where about an acre and a half of land had been recently turned. consisting of a long beam of wood.

"Phew!" I ejaculated. and the immense quantity of mold adhering to my boots made it heavy walking. until I felt myself growing desperately hungry. he sat down on his haunches.Chapter 8
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straight as a line. but not as cheerfully as at first: I began to feel a little stiff and tired. The horses also did not work as smoothly as at the commencement: they seemed to have something on their minds. coming to a sudden halt. the novelty had now worn off. Calling to mind some things I had heard about the terrifying effect of the human eye on royal tigers and other
. and so the work went on agreeably for some hours. and gravely watched me. ancient. After finishing the food I resumed work again. they were in a highly perplexed state." While standing there. bounding along over the earth with a speed like that of a greyhound−−a huge. "Three hundred and sixty−four days of this sort of thing is a rather long price to pay for a suit of clothes. as I stood wiping the honest sweat from my face with my moldy. giving the impression that I had been a skillful plowman all my life without knowing it. I saw an animal coming swiftly towards me from the direction of the forest. and generally confined their operations to one end of the furrow while I was away at the other. Then they returned to the original starting−point and cut another. It was interesting work. Sitting down on the beam of the plow. he was within a few yards of me. and extremely dirty pocket−handkerchief. then again to the new furrow. for between their fear of me and their desire to get the worms. I opened my basket and discussed the homely fare with a keen appetite. fierce−looking brute. Before I had made up my mind what to do. where there was nothing to guide them. I felt convinced that it was an animal of the same kind as the one I had seen during the night. and when close to me. All this seemed very wonderful to me. whereupon they marched off and made a fresh furrow as before. and then. moreover. and I was also amused to see the little birds that came in numbers from the wood to devour the worms in the fresh−turned mold. and so on progressively. for at the end of every furrow they would turn and stare at me in the most exasperating manner. The space the horses had marked out for themselves was plowed up in due time.

and that. Glad at having discovered all these things without displaying my ignorance by asking questions. stood still.
Chapter 9
When I arrived at the house I was met by the young man who had set me the morning's task. and flinging up their disdainful heels so as to send a shower of dirt over me. in spite of all I could do to make them continue the work. but he was taciturn now. In a few moments the master of the house. and then almost lost my fear in admiration of his beauty. and galloped off. and when quite close uttered a sound like a ringing. He was taller than a boarhound. Left alone in this unceremonious fashion. or hoofs rather. I gazed steadily at him. loudly neighing to each other. but slender in figure. and wore a cold. and into a large apartment I now saw for the first time. ear−tips. fox−like features. and end of the bushy tail were also velvet−black. and. A little more pondering. but after going about fifty yards he looked back. and very large. and the feet. and disappeared from sight. they had taken the matter into their own hands. After watching me quietly for two or three minutes. and. and I also came to the conclusion that the singular wolf−like animal was only one of the house−dogs. estranged look. and seeing me still gazing after him. much to my relief. and long. The horses now turned round. with keen. which seemed to portend trouble. metallic yelp. finding me indisposed to release them at the proper moment. followed by most
. his coat was silvery−gray. I took up my basket and started home. and had come now to insist on a suspension of work. he started up. trotted away towards the wood. wheeled round and rushed at me. He at once led me to a part of the house at a distance from the hall. I presently began to think that they knew more about the work than I did. After waiting a while they proceeded to wriggle themselves out of the ropes.Chapter 9
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savage beasts. that he had visited me in the night to remind me that I was sleeping with the door open. there were two black spots above his eyes. deliberately walking up to me. muzzle. after which he once more bounded away. erect ears.

beginning to feel extremely uncomfortable." Advancing to the table. offended look. I saw that it was written in the same minute. and on the faces of all of them I noticed the same cold." "Smith. until the year expires. for to call it a "detestable crime" seemed to me a very great abuse of language." I now concluded that I had offended by squeezing Yoletta's hand. "come here. bending on me a look of the utmost severity. Nevertheless. "I can only plead my ignorance of the customs of the house.Chapter 9
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of the other inmates." said the old man. "I suppose I have offended against the laws and customs by working the horses too long. Hebrew−like characters of the folio I had examined on the previous evening. "If I have offended." "No man. and. and read to me in this book. with increased severity. "is so ignorant as not to know right from wrong. and let us hope that the pangs of an outraged conscience will be more painful to you than the light punishment I am about to inflict for so destestable a crime." said he." he returned." I said. "I cannot read it. for your continued presence in the house offends us. we take into account the confused state of your intellect yesterday. also entered. but we have made a compact with you. and had been told to read from the book merely to make myself acquainted with the pains and penalties attendant on such an indiscretion. "The dickens take my luck!" said I to myself. and judge you leniently. delivered with little humility. "there is indeed little more to be said. and depositing thereon a large volume he had brought with him. feeling some shame at having thus publicly to confess my ignorance." was my answer. "Then. I do not understand the letters. I should have said: Depart from us. Had the matter come to my knowledge sooner. we must suffer you. advancing to the table. For the space of sixty days you must dwell
.

He began to pick up the sovereigns one by one to examine them. but it is impossible to forgive a lie. but last evening I discovered that it was not so. and naturally concluded that your books were written in the same kind of letters. Fortunately. immensely relieved. going to condemn me without hearing me speak. with an access of wrath. You have already seen the letters of my country on the coins I showed you last evening. and now here is the book." "Are you. although it was not a very serious matter." said I. Let us hope that in this period of solitude and silence you will sufficiently repent your crime. Last evening you made a contrary statement to Yoletta. or telling me anything about it? What lie have I told?" After a pause. where each day a task will be assigned to you.
." said he. for I certainly had felt a little guilty about the hand−squeezing performance. I thought I could not do better than to show him how I wrote." "But that is easily explained. never leaving the room. then. and handed the paper to him. and rejoin us afterwards with a changed heart. Tearing a blank page from my book I hastily scribbled a few lines." And here I again pulled out my pocket−book. the fluid in it had not become dry. It is even a worse offense than the first. pointing to the open page before him: "Yesterday. during which he closely scrutinized my face. in answer to my question. and emptied the contents on the table. "I have told no lie!" "This. and you confess that you cannot read it. finding my beautiful black and gold stylograph pen inserted in the book. Meanwhile." "A lie!" I exclaimed in amazement. "I can read the books of my own country. he said. you told me that you could read. "is an aggravation of your former offense.Chapter 9
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apart from us. for all offenses may be forgiven a man. and must be dealt with separately−−when the sixty days have expired. and subsisting on bread and water only.

beneath it. also that they all speak the same language. He examined it again. now. are not the same as the letters on the gold. and explain why you write in two different ways?" I told him. but we know that everywhere they have the same law of right and wrong inscribed on the heart. or these marks you have made on the paper. Then. said: "Pray tell me.
. unknown island of the sea. hate a lie. have now succeeded in convincing me that this is not the case.Chapter 9
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saying: "This is how I write. "I have lived long in the world. Presently he remarked: "This writing. as you have said. addressing me in an impressive manner. a lie is hateful. I read the words of the sentence: "In different parts of the world men have different customs. It is common knowledge that in the hotter and colder regions men are compelled to live differently. wandered often to the stylograph pen in my hand. my home was on an island. did you not tell me that you came from an island?" "Yes. and the knowledge others possess concerning it is mine also. or in some small. and until this moment I also believed that they wrote in similar characters. however. after comparing my letters with those on the sovereigns. You." "Smith. but in printing letters." he said. but happily not to charge me with a third and bigger lie. a people may exist−−ah. but his eyes. why letters of one form were used to stamp on gold and other substances. with a modest blush. that in some obscure valley. but alike to all men in all places. and." I took the paper and proceeded to copy the sentence I had written." I answered. I perceived. owing to the conditions they are placed in. cut off from all intercourse by inaccessible mountains. and." He began studying the paper. what you have written here. as well as I could. then returned it to him. and write different letters. and of a different form for writing.

and hope with increased love to atone for our injustice." "Allow me to make you a present of it. I must now ask your forgiveness." I replied. and shall consider myself more than compensated if you will permit Yoletta to teach me. Seeing him again directing curious glances at the stylograph. "I am now deeply in your debt. which I was turning about in my fingers. "I am very anxious to be able to read in your books. We rejoice at your innocence. placing a hand on my shoulder. where the people. have in the course of many centuries changed their customs−−even their manner of writing. My son. beautifully fashioned and encircled with gold bands. seeing him so taken with it. "There is one thing I greatly desire. not so. but with a fluid. This surprises me as much as anything you have told me." said I."
. "I have only been waiting for an opportunity. It is black polished stone. An island of which no report has ever reached us." he returned." I said. and will keep it if I may bestow in return something you desire." he concluded. I therefore made a more modest request. but it was too early to speak yet. and as I alone am to blame for having brought this charge against you." "I am glad it has ended so happily. "to look closely at this wonderful contrivance. wondering whether his being in my debt would increase my chances with Yoletta or not. isolated from their fellows. Although I had seen these gold pieces I did not understand. that such a human family existed: now I am persuaded of it." Yoletta's hand was really the only thing in life I desired. "No." he said. "But I should greatly like to possess it. or did not realize. and contains the writing−fluid within itself. I offered it to him. for I had perceived that your writing was not made with a pencil.Chapter 9
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"So I imagined. He examined it with interest. as I knew nothing about their matrimonial usages−−not even whether or not the lady's consent was necessary to a compact of the kind.

the father. and gave up my mind to pleasant dreams. At length. my son?" I started up. and. and of these surprising contrasts I was destined to have more that same evening.Chapter 9
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"She shall teach you in any case. yet was at a loss to know what he meant by leading." "There is nothing else I desire. The afternoon's experiences had certainly been remarkable−−a strange mixture of pain and pleasure. Not feeling so ravenously hungry as on the previous evening. to my surprise. I thought of several things−−whist. the venerable father reclining at his ease on his throne−like couch near the brass globes. We were again assembled in the great room. not blending into homogeneous gray." said I." he returned. seeing them all in so lively a mood. for like the bee that has been much hindered at his flowery work by geometric webs. said: "Will you lead.
. I did not hesitate to join in the conversation: nor did I succeed so very badly. while the others pursued their various occupations as on the former evening. turning very red in the face. I settled myself comfortably in one of the spacious seats. Not being able to get near Yoletta. moreover. and nothing could exceed our happiness as we sat at meat−−or vegetables. is already owning to you. but resembling rather a bright embroidery on a dark. considering the strangeness of it all. "That. I was compelled to ask him to explain. we all repaired to the supper−room. and much more. The cloud having blown over. but being still in doubt. "Pray keep the pen and make me happy." And thus ended a disagreeable matter. who had been regarding me for some time.. for I did not wish to trouble him with questions. dancing. somber ground. and having nothing to do. evening prayers. I began to acquire some skill in pushing my way gracefully through the tangling meshes of thought and phrases that were new to me. etc. my son.

and then another. feeling extremely hot and uncomfortable." said I. Presently some that were near me began retiring to distant seats. only the father. I launched forth with the "Vicar of Bray"−−a grand old song and a great favorite of mine. They all started when I commenced. and casting astonished looks towards me. and having a good tenor voice I was not unwilling to lead off with a song. "Oh yes. I glanced at Yoletta. exchanging glances. A low murmur of sound arose. but not a word was spoken.Chapter 9
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"Will you lead the singing?" he returned. I was almost choking. faint flute−like notes were heard as if approaching. or to say something. sitting at some distance. and often as this solemn sound died away. looking a little surprised. and unable to utter a word. Suddenly the old gentleman. and no piano. I thought it about time to leave off then. with pleasure. joined by other tones as they progressed. and this distressed me so that it made me hoarse. for them to thank me for singing. I remarked that I feared my singing was not to their taste. and then the long dead silence becoming unendurable. but still I thought it best to go bravely on to the end. while the old man slowly emerged with a somewhat frightened look from the wrappings. but still at a great distance. and saw that she was holding her hands pressed to her ears. drew up his long yellow robe and wrapped it round his face and head. who had been staring wildly at me for some time. putting out one of his hands. whereupon one of the brass globes began slowly revolving. soon to be succeeded by another. and stopping abruptly in the middle of the fourth stanza I sat down. dying away in the distance. and seemed to pass like a wave through the room. Still the mysterious coming sounds continued at intervals to grow louder and clearer. I concluded naturally that my friends amused themselves with solo songs without accompaniment of an evening. No reply was made. and in the ensuing wave of sound from the great globes they would cease to be distinguishable. Yoletta dropped her hands and resumed her work. and my singing became very bad indeed. Clearing my rusty throat with a _ghrr−ghrr−hram_ which made them all jump. touched a handle or key near him. But there was no word for me to utter: it was. now
. of course. but it was getting so dusky in the room that I could not feel sure that my eyes were not deceiving me. There being no music about. each marked by an increase of power.

I was affected to tears. the tones growing fewer and fainter by degrees until they almost died out of hearing in the opposite direction. soul−stirring concert. The composer of that song. presumptuous folly I had been guilty of in roaring out that abominable "Vicar of Bray" ballad. but whether from voices or wind−instruments I was unable to tell. which had now become as hateful to me as my trousers or boots. and Aeolian in character. Lying back on my couch. These floating aerial sounds also answered to the higher notes of some of the female singers. presented themselves to my mind as the three most damnable beings that had ever existed. but there was a blending of voices and a something like ventriloquism in the tones which made it impossible to distinguish the notes of any one person. But when I remembered my own brutal bull of Bashan performance. some of them having small. listening with closed eyes to this mysterious. That all were now taking part in the performance I became convinced by watching in turn different individuals. answering to the deeper vibrations.Chapter 9
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altogether bursting out in joyous chorus. for. which seemed to come from invisible harpers hovering in the shadows above. exquisite harmony. Deeper. and its subject. formless melody. wandering over the entire room. the double−faced Vicar himself. sometimes resembling in character the vox humana of an organ. no elysium or starry abode could compare with this green earth for a dwellingplace. resembling soprano voices. as it were. grinding my teeth with impotent anger. the writer of the words. and then the wide room would be filled with a mist. with this new love in my heart. was on fire with shame. of this floating. brightened and spiritualized in a wonderful degree. then one purest liquid note soaring bird−like alone. my face. and almost feared that I had been snatched away into some supra−mundane region inhabited by beings of an angelic or half−angelic order−−feared. curiously−shaped instruments in their hands. until the whole air about me was filled and palpitating with the strange. "The devil take my luck!" I muttered. which passed onwards. tremulous. there in the dark. for it seemed such hard lines. and every time they rose to a certain pitch there were responsive sounds−−not certainly from any of the performers−−low. as if walls and ceiling were honey−combed with sensitive musical cells. I say. more sonorous tones now issued from the revolving globes. and I cursed the ignorant. just when I had succeeded in
.

the pattern on it. Now that I had become acquainted with their style of singing. seemed a very venial offense compared with my attempt to lead the singing. and have not yet freed your lungs from it." he kindly added. which had. not a word was said on the subject by any one. which was very beautiful. though I had quite expected to be taken at once to the magisterial chamber to hear some dreadful sentence passed on me. in fact. to go and spoil it all in that unhappy way. down to the shoes. about which there had been such a pother. and other vestiges of a civilization which they had perhaps survived. and when. and the pattern a bright maroon red.
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At length the joyful day arrived when I was to cease. for painful subjects were best forgotten. and soon found that I had been measured with faultless accuracy. claimed my first attention. Nevertheless. evidently borrowed from the skin of some kind of snake. the venerable gentleman raised his hands deprecatingly. almost citron yellow. like those worn by the others. The ground color was light green. the supposed fib. on entering my cell I beheld my beautiful new garments−−two complete suits. "No doubt. I began to express regret for having inflicted pain on them by attempting to sing. Trembling with eagerness. for returning at noon from the fields. "when you were lying there buried among the hills. Green was the prevailing or ground tint−−a soft sap green. inclining to purple. with bronze reflections. the cracked boots. anxious to propitiate my host. fitted to perfection. when the concert was over. you swallowed a large amount of earth and gravel in your efforts to breathe.
. and begged me to say no more about it.Chapter 10
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getting into favor. My delight culminated when I drew on the hose." This was the most charitable view he could take of the matter. for everything. and I was thankful that no worse result followed. intended only for working hours. a curious design. being a somewhat obscure red. but the second. in outward appearance at all events. before retiring. the most soberly colored. which was for the house. to be an alien. besides underwear: one. I flung off the old tweeds.

"Oh. "Why is green the principal color in my clothes. can you not guess so simple a thing?" said Edra. when the excitement began to abate a little. for it all at once occurred to me that green was perhaps the color for an alien or mere hireling. "Now I shall value my clothes a hundred times more. what
. But am I so different from you all?" "Oh yes. placing her white hands on my shoulders and smiling straight into my face. tell me one secret. "Now. is that the reason!" cried I. and your hair has a very different color. "Why. Smith. since you have taken so much pains to make them−−well. I flew to exhibit myself to my friends. How beautiful she looked. and I quite astonished them with the torrent of eloquence in which I expressed my overflowing gratitude. quite different−−have you never looked at yourself? Your skin is whiter and redder. or in the rainbow above the earth. when no other person in the house wears more than a very little of it?" I had no sooner spoken than I heartily wished that I had held my peace. immensely relieved. Edra?" I said. you would look very beautiful in any color that is on the earth. and found them assembled and waiting to see and admire the result of their work." I exclaimed. "I think. It will look better when it grows long. with a flushed face and palpitating heart. still with a lingering apprehension." "No. The pleasure I saw reflected in their transparent faces increased my happiness a hundredfold. And your eyes−−do you know that they never change! for when we look at you closely they are still blue−gray. look at the color of my eyes and skin−−would this green tint be suitable for me to wear?" "Oh. standing there with her eyes so near to mine! "Tell me why.Chapter 10
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I had no sooner arrayed myself than. in which light they perhaps regarded me. and not green. I think." said I. I wish they were. Edra.

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shall I say?−−harmonize. and desiring above all things to have some word of congratulation from her lips. impatient temper. and proceeded to lead me into the music−room. "Oh"−−she laughed−−"do you think it will be so pleasant sitting by me here? I am glad you think that. when your work is done. and come forth like a snake (with a divided tail) in a brand new skin." said she. I went off to seek her. "and every afternoon." "And have you ever undergone that sad punishment of being shut up by yourself for many days. since I had shed my outer integument. for now evidently my blundering did not so much matter." "I hope I am very stupid. and red chalk pencils or crayons. because if you do I shall ask some one else to take my place. Yoletta?"
. Dash it all. Presently I missed Yoletta from the room. "Come. with the peculiar color of my mug. I suppose. "Now. Shall I tell you why? Because I have a quick." said I. Everything wrong I have ever done. has been through my hasty temper. Then we all laughed. Yoletta?" "Yes. I am going to begin teaching you. for which I have been punished. there she produced some large white tablets. She was standing under the portico waiting for me. and that it will take me a long time to learn. Smith." she said. you must come to me here. where we sat down on one of the couches close to the dais." "Would you really do that. with the grave air of a young schoolmistress. but if you prefer me for a teacher you must not try to be stupid. I'm blundering again! I mean−−I mean−−don't you know−−−−" Edra laughed and gave it up.

She looked a little startled at my question. a year at least!" She did not know how much dearer this confession of one little human weakness made her seem to me. Yoletta. that you have not said anything about them? Do I look nice." For two hours she taught me. and we must make up for lost time. because I think−−I know that I suffer more than any one can imagine. to see the earth and sky and animals−−this is like life to me." I continued pleadingly. "Come. often. I liked you a little because I knew what a pretty butterfly you would be in time. Now. much better. but said nothing. when I "had led the singing. "I waited for your new clothes to be finished. I mean I will endeavor to adhere to the morendo and perdendosi style−−don't you know? What am I saying! But I promise you.Chapter 10
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"Yes." was a constant sore in my mind. listen. every day seems−−oh. and that I was in for rather a tough job. making her red letters or marks. and at the conclusion of the lesson. I had begun to think that I had not done myself justice on that memorable occasion. which I copied on my tablet. to feel the sun and wind on my face. "I know now. "that you all sing softly. You were a poor caterpillar before. for what other punishment is there? But oh. when she had put the tablets aside. I shan't frighten you. if you will only let me try and sing to you
. I helped to make your wings. To tread on the grass. If you will only consent to try me once I promise to stick like cobbler's wax−−I beg your pardon. The memory of that miserable failure." "But do you know. let us begin." she said. and the desire to make another trial under more favorable circumstances was very strong in me. "Do you think that you will be able to teach me to sing also?" I asked. and will you like me any better now?" "Yes. I hope it will never happen again. and when I am shut up alone. and explaining them to me. I had got a general idea that the writing was to a great extent phonographic. Yoletta.

but she raised her hand apprehensively. although singing in a subdued tone. "No. stand there. I quite expected some word of praise. "What are you thinking of. and. and I had set my heart on this trial. but I was not going to bellow at her like a bull. Yoletta. no." she replied absently." It was hard to see her troubled face and obey. "and sing low. the only melody I happened to know which had any resemblance to their divine music. "Will you sing something now?" I said. I felt that I had never sung so well before. no. slowly walking across the floor with eyes cast down. and placing her hands on the keys. but she spoke no word. For the last three days. sending soft waves of sound through the room." she returned. while working in the fields. then. caused two of the small globes to revolve. or to be asked why I had not sung this melody on that unhappy evening when I was asked to lead." She turned from me with a somewhat clouded expression of face. To my surprise she seemed to play as I sang a suitable accompaniment on the globes. When I finished. a little impatiently. "Nothing. I had been incessantly practicing my dear old master Campana's exquisite _M'appar sulla tomba_. I advanced towards her. But you have not said one word about my singing−−did you not like it?" "Your singing? Oh no! It was a pleasant−tasting little kernel in a very rough rind−−I should like one without the other. "Not now−−this evening. "You look very solemn about nothing. that you look so serious?" I asked." she said."
. and walked with slow steps to the dais. which aided and encouraged me.Chapter 10
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once.

we occupied ourselves very agreeably with those processes which. looking down. but I can translate them. and sitting down I divided my attention between my beautiful hose and Yoletta. but I did not venture to talk any more about music. I shall lead to−night. The father of the house. my daughter." said I. thinking it all very strange. "Ah." I said." "Oh. which I. Smith. some new theorist informs us. Do not speak to me now. "I do not know what you mean by the words of a song. while Yoletta. with her hand on his arm. very well. constitute our chief pleasure in life. waited for him to finish. after rising from his seat. I also heard them this morning passing in flocks." He put his hand on her head.Chapter 10
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"You talk in riddles. still slowly pacing the floor with that absent look on her face. "shall I guess what has inspired you to−day? You have been listening to the passage birds. as I had now grown accustomed to call our head. she said in a low voice. That evening I overheard a curious little dialogue." he said with a smile. The words are in Italian. however. studied her upturned face. At length the curious mood changed. for the next two or three hours. And you have been following them in thought far away into those sun−bright lands where winter never comes. But if you would like to know the song I shall be only too glad to teach it to you. where. and before very long we repaired to the eating−room." "The words?" she said absently. Yoletta."
. stood for a few minutes talking near me. and turned to her. When he had done speaking. "The words of the song. but I'm afraid the answers to them would not sound very flattering to me. overheard: "Father. and.

moving past me to the sound of that mysterious melody. They came back to me. I knew that on this particular occasion it would be Yoletta. for the melody of _M'appar sulla tomba_ had been so transmuted and etherealized. too." He stooped and kissed her forehead. All the songs I had ever heard her sing came back to me. which was yet
. but many a dear one besides returned "in beauty from the dust" appeared to be present−−white−haired old men who had spoken treasured words to me in bygone years. which had passed through the alembic of their more delicately organized minds. in the prime of life. and almost at the same moment there came to me a remembrance of my beloved mother. after overhearing this conversation. also went away. and then left the room. when it began to shape itself into melodies. shadowy procession. It commenced in the usual mysterious and indefinable manner. as it were. until the whole room seemed filled with a pale. I remembered with an unaccountable feeling of sadness. funereal sadness. At length I discovered that this was Campana's music. but it was impossible for me ever to discover who the leader was. filling me with a melancholy infinitely precious. that the composer himself would have listened in wondering ecstasy to the mournful strains. father. only not as I had ever heard it sung. in a hundred bewildering disguises. the idea possessed me that I was listening to strains once familiar." she returned. "I have only been a little way from home in thought−−only to that spot where the grass has not yet grown to hide the ashes and loose mold. and in spite of the very poor opinion she had expressed of my musical abilities. And not only my mother. ringing in my mind with a wonderful joy. That some person was supposed to lead the singing every evening I knew. that poor Campana had recently died in London. but ever ending in a strange. Listening. and she. of whose premature death in this or that far−off region of the world−wide English empire I had heard from time to time. schoolfellows and other boyish friends and companions. but long unheard and forgotten.Chapter 10
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"No. I was prepared to admire the performance more than I had ever done before. never noticing the hungry look with which I witnessed the tender caress. Through all the evening it came back. however. but after a time. whose early death was my first great grief in boyhood. now. and men.

it came to me now like the memory of a repulsive dream. but not wholly pass. to be taken up and borne yet further away by far−off. albeit in that coarser tone which had failed to win favor with my new friends. in others. which I was only too glad to forget. several tough old giants−−chiefly oak. like mysterious. as I sat there in the dark. because time had robbed them of their glory. and free from care and regret. invisible hands. when I went forth to my appointed task in the fields or the workhouse. wondering. and bestowing on their crowns that lusterless. If there was one kind of work I preferred above all others. seemed a greater mystery every morning. and the vibrating air.
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It seemed to me now that I had never really lived before so sweet was this new life−−so healthy. scanty foliage which has a mournful meaning. a divine hunger of the heart which is part of our immortality.
. do−nothing existence endurable. a couple of miles from the house. until the exquisite bliss and pain of it made me tremble and shed tears. for all the hidden cells were stirred. worn−out. Again and yet again that despairing _Ah−i−me_ fell like a long shuddering sob from the revolving globes. so natural and so pleasant did it now seem to labor with my own hands. dying sounds. it was wood−cutting. and to eat my bread in the sweat of my face. was less in my thoughts on each succeeding day. clearer voices. I was allowed to follow my own inclination. or a something added. desolate arms. like the thin white hairs on the bowed head of a very old man. At this distance from the house I could freely indulge my propensity for singing. In the forest. How I had ever found that listless. luxurious. withering their long. and were an eyesore. what this tempest of the soul which music wakes in us can mean: whether it is merely a growth of this our earth−life. then to pass away. yet again responded to by nearer. and as a great deal of timber was required at this season. The old life. chestnut. swept the suspended strings. in tones which seemed wrung "from the depths of some divine despair".Chapter 11
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almost more than my heart could bear. elm. which I had lived in cities. and beech−−had been marked out for destruction: in some cases because they had been scorched and riven by lightnings. as men will wonder at such moments. and from voices far and near.

where the stream rushed noisily over its stony bed and formed numerous deep channels between the rocks. and I often wished to pay this hill a visit. then she stood still until I
. I could shout aloud to my heart's content. out of earshot of them all. and one could cross over by jumping from rock to rock. and thought our delightful walk was about to begin." said she. almost a mountain in height. let us go there now. I would sit down to rest and eat my simple midday fare. Finding that I could not overtake her. she suddenly started off towards the hill at a swift pace. since that first day when she had placed her hand in mine. nor. "Come. while taking my lesson in reading. rejoicing in the boisterous old English ballads. with her at all."_ Meanwhile. in fact. to think and dream of Yoletta. _"Might awaken the dead Or the fox from his lair in the morning. exhausted with my efforts. its echoing strokes making fit accompaniment to my strains. followed her with caution. Yoletta led the way. then. and. I shouted to her to wait for me. with the frantic energy of a Gladstone out of office. I plied my ax. on the other side of the river. I joyfully agreed: I had never walked alone with her. which quickly left me far behind. above everything. which. ***** In my walks to and from the forest I cast many a wistful look at a solitary flat−topped hill. half a mile from the house. which stood two or three miles from the house. anxious to escape a wetting. She led me to a point.Chapter 11
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Among the grand trees. like John Peele's view−hallo. to admire myself in my deep−green and chocolate working−dress. until for many yards about me the ground was littered with white and yellow chips. while I. then. north of it. From its summit I felt sure that a very extensive view of the surrounding country might be had. and now we were so much nearer in heart to each other. leaping airily from stone to stone. One afternoon. laying the tablets aside. but when I was safe over. I mentioned this desire to Yoletta.

I caught her hand and held it tight. and never paused again until the summit was reached. which would make us equal. ready to make up for insufficient speed and wind by superior cunning. then. Yoletta. let us behave like rational beings and walk quietly. and then." I was beginning." Slowly I toiled on. and sat down there until I joined her." I screamed after her. looking like a statue outlined against the clear blue sky." thought I. when I got near her and was just about to execute my plan. but presently looking up I saw her at the top." "May I put it to some useful purpose−−may I do what I like with it?"
. and hold her fast by the arm until the walk is finished. "When you ask me to walk again. dancing up the mountain−side with a tireless energy that amazed as well as exasperated me." She laughed." she replied. "You may keep my hand. "Now you shall not escape and run away again. when away she went again.Chapter 11
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was within three or four yards Of her. and jumping to the ground. "Wait for me just once more. "I shall not move unless I have a rope round your waist to pull you back when you try to rush off in that mad fashion." I panted. when off she fled like the wind once more. At length she reached the foot of the hill. So far it has been nothing but a mad chase. sat down at my side on the grass. "Now my chance has come." said I. standing motionless on a stone. "I will go quietly up and catch her napping. half−way up the side. with a merry laugh. overcome with fatigue. Once more I got up and pressed on until I reached her. "it has nothing to do up here. Yoletta. she started nimbly away. "For goodness sake. I sat down to rest. she stopped and sat down on a stone. You have knocked all the wind out of me. and yet I was in pretty good trim. and then sank down on the grass. Thoroughly tired and beaten.

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"Yes, you may," then she added with a smile: "There is no thorn in it now." I kissed it many times on the back, the palm, the wrist then bestowed a separate caress on each finger−tip. "Why do you kiss my hand?" she asked. "Do you not know−−can you not guess? Because it is the sweetest thing I can kiss, except one other thing. Shall I tell you−−−−" "My face? And why do you not kiss that?" "Oh, may I?" said I, and drawing her to me I kissed her soft cheek. "May I kiss the other cheek now?" I asked. She turned it to me, and when I had kissed it rapturously, I gazed into her eyes, which looked back, bright and unabashed, into mine. "I think−−I think I made a slight mistake, Yoletta," I said. "What I meant to ask was, will you let me kiss you where I like−−on your chin, for instance, or just where I like?" "Yes; but you are keeping me too long. Kiss me as many times as you like, and then let us admire the prospect." I drew her closer and kissed her mouth, not once nor twice, but clinging to it with all the ardor of passion, as if my lips had become glued to hers. Suddenly she disengaged herself from me. "Why do you kiss my mouth in that violent way?" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling, her cheeks flushed. "You seem like some hungry animal that wanted to devour me." That was, oddly enough, just how I felt. "Do you not not know, sweetest, why I kiss you in that way? Because I love you." "I know you do, Smith. I can understand and appreciate your love without having my lips bruised." "And do you love me, Yoletta?"

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"Yes, certainly−−did you not know that?" "And is it not sweet to kiss when you love? Do you know what love is, darling? Do you love me a thousand times more than any one else in the world?" "How extravangantly you talk!" she replied. "What strange things you say!" "Yes, dear, because love is strange−−the strangest, sweetest thing in life. It comes once only to the heart, and the one person loved is infinitely more than all others. Do you not understand that?" "Oh no; what do you mean, Smith?" "Is there any other person dearer to your heart than I am?" "I love every one in the house, some more than others. Those that are closely related to me I love most." "Oh, please say no more! You love your people with one kind of love, but me with a different love−−is it not so?" "There is only one kind of love," said she. "Ah, you say that because you are a child yet, and do not know. You are even younger than I thought, perhaps. How old are you, dear?" "Thirty−one years old," she replied, with the utmost gravity. "Oh, Yoletta, what an awful cram! I mean−−oh, I beg your pardon for being so rude! But−−but don't you think you can draw it mild? Thirty−one−−what a joke! Why, I'm an old fellow compared with you, and I'm not twenty−two yet. Do tell me what you mean, Yoletta?" She was not listening to me, I saw: she had risen from the grass and seated herself again on the stone. For only answer to my question she pointed to

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the west with her hand, saying: "Look there, Smith." I stood up and looked. The sun was near the horizon now, and partially concealed by low clouds, which were beginning to form−−gray, and tinged with purple and red; but their misty edges burned with an intense yellow flame. Above, the sky was clear as blue glass, barred with pale−yellow rays, shot forth by the sinking sun, and resembling the spokes of an immense celestial wheel reaching to the zenith. The billowy earth, with its forests in deep green and many−colored, autumnal foliage, stretched far before us, here in shadow, and there flushed with rich light; while the mountain range, looming near and stupendous on our right, had changed its color from dark blue to violet. The doubts and fears agitating my heart made me indifferent to the surpassing beauty of the scene: I turned impatiently from it to gaze again on her graceful figure, girlish still in its slim proportions; but her face, flushed with sunlight, and crowned with its dark, shining hair, seemed to me like the face of one of the immortals. The expression of rapt devotion on it made me silent, for it seemed as if she too had been touched by nature's magic, like earth and sky, and been transfigured; and waiting for the mood to pass, I stood by her side, resting my hand on her knee. By−and−by she looked down and smiled, and then I returned to the subject of her age. "Surely, Yoletta," said I, "you were only poking fun at me−−I mean, amusing yourself at my expense. You can't possibly be more than about fifteen, or sixteen at the very outside." She smiled again and shook her head. "Oh, I know, I can solve the riddle now. Your years are different, of course, like everything else in this latitude. A month is called a year with you, and that would make you, let me see−−how much is twelve times thirty−one? Oh, hang it, nearly five hundred, I should think. Why am I such a duffer at mental arithmetic! It is just the contrary−−how many twelves in thirty−one? About two and a half in round numbers, and that's absurd, as you are not a baby. Oh, I have it: your seasons are called years, of course−−why didn't I

yes. with a stunned feeling in my brain. Is it not so. leaving her side I sat down on a low stone at some distance. but do tell me how old your father is?" "He is nearly two hundred years old−−a hundred and ninety−eight. and it lasts from the time the swallows come in spring until they come again. Yoletta?" "I do not know what you are talking about. exactly what I had imagined. I think. honestly. Yoletta.Chapter 11
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see it before! No. or two of your years−−summer and winter−−mean a year. the virgin sweetness of girlhood was on
." "Sixty−three! I'll be shot if she's a day more than twenty−eight! Idiot that I am." "Well. what does it mean? I know it is awfully rude to inquire a lady's age. listen for one moment. Ah. "Heavens on earth−−I shall go stark. but what am I to do? Will you kindly tell me Edra's age?" "Edra? I forget. Smith. how you distress me! It almost frightens me to ask another question. Oh yes. that would make you only seven and a half. and I am not listening. and something like despair in my heart. I see it now: a year means two years. That she had told me the truth I could no longer doubt for one moment: it was impossible for her crystal nature to be anything but truthful. you are thirty−one years old?" "Did I not tell you so? Yes." she replied. I am thirty−one years old. why can't I keep calm! But." "Well. I never heard anything to equal this! Good heavens." "And seriously. she is sixty−three. and tell me how long does a year last?" "It lasts from the time the leaves fall in the autumn until they fall again. The number of her years mattered nothing to me. staring mad!" But I could say no more. and that just makes you sixteen.

wholly mine−−and give yourself to me. you must wait patiently. and be all I wish to me. saying and doing nothing willfully to alienate my heart." "What is it that you wish?" she questioned. or passion. give ourselves.Chapter 11
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her lips. and saying wild. but I will forgive you. "That you should be mine−−mine alone. you make me happy again." And drawing down my face she kissed my lips. filled with these despairing thoughts. "In a sense we do. dropping on her knees before me. she came down from her perch. Smith−have I said anything to hurt you?" said she." I returned." she said. and kindle no fire in hers? Then. "Why are you troubled. Do you not think I love you enough? You are very dear to me−−dearer every day. "Darling.
. Come. "And do you not know that you have offended me?" "Have I? Tell me how. and. the time will perhaps come when you will understand me." she added." She continued gazing up into my eyes. the misery was that she had lived thirty−one years in the world and did not understand the words I had spoken to her−−did not know what love. I suppose. Smith. put her arms about my neck and gazed steadily into my face. "for if your love increases every day. It troubled me and spoiled my pleasure. as I sat there. body and soul. meaningless things while I sat there watching the setting sun. was! Would it always be so−−would my heart consume itself to ashes. because I love you." "By asking questions. "And if you are not yet satisfied that I have given myself to you in that way. dearest Yoletta. the freshness and glory of early youth on her forehead. rising. until the time arrives when my love will be equal to your desire. body and soul. to those we love. and. pulled me up by the hand.

and I was not prepared to break the resolution I had made of prudently holding my tongue about its peculiar institutions. evading the question." "There is nothing to equal the rainbow lily. smooth stem. "Do you see!" she said. in a few days." Now "that island" was an unfortunate subject. looking up at me with a bright smile. which comes when most flowers are dead. Yoletta! Spring is the time to see the earth covered with the glory of flowers. tell me about the island. "Yes." "Ah. and have heard the crash of the thunder: could you imagine all that if you had never witnessed it. Smith. but in that island where all things. "You have seen the heavens black with tempests. were different. slender bud. and somewhat pensively." "Oh. on a round. "What is the rainbow lily?" "By−and−by. do you not know that it is a rainbow lily!" And rising. we started hand in hand on our walk down the hill.Chapter 11
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Silently. it will be in fullest bloom. and the earth will be covered with its glory. Smith. that I have to tell you these things?" "No. including flowers. she took my hand and walked on again. Presently she dropped on her knees. and opening the grass with her hands. and I described it to you?"
. and have felt the lightnings blinding your eyes. yes. dear." "It is so late in the season. or have their bright colors tarnished. Have you lived in the moon. springing without leaves from the soil. I see a bud. dear. displayed a small. but I do not know anything more about it. "How can I tell you?−−how could you imagine it if I were to tell you?" I said.

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"No. And now tell me about the rainbow lilies. then with a ringing laugh. the world is a paradise to me. suddenly withdrawing her hand from mine. although I put forth all my powers. I'm glad to find that you do walk sometimes. or the midnight sky shining with myriads of stars. Tired with running." "That word is an echo." "Yes. gazing at the rich hues of the afterglow. and stand for some time motionless. could you imagine these things if I described them to you?" "No." "Yes? Tell me about these solemn occasions." she replied.
. but always at my approach she would spring lightly away. Ah. If you had never seen the sun setting in glory. and whenever she came to a large stone. but it was a very vain chase." "Then it would be useless to tell you. she would spring on to it. with you at my side. for I am a great lover of flowers. Smith. Occasionally she would drop on her knees to admire some wild flower. escaping from me as easily as a wild bird. bounding down the hill−side with the speed and grace of a gazelle. or search for a lily bud. if you will be my Eve! How sweet it is to walk hand in hand with you in the twilight. she sped from me. and the heart its love." "Are you? Is it strange you should have a taste common to all human beings?" she returned with a pretty smile. You must wait for the earth to bring forth her rainbow lilies." "With or without flowers. I instantly gave chase. "But it is easier to ask questions than to answer them. Yoletta. but it was not so nice when you were scuttling from me like a wild rabbit." "This is not one of them. sometimes−−on solemn occasions.

as they are called−−composed only of adults? Again. only to be expiated by solitary confinement and a bread−and−water diet. should make me the most miserable or the most happy being upon earth. if not punishable in that way. besides some absent pilgrims. at any rate. had smooth faces. even with the most jealous watching. to the manner born. Why was this large family−−twenty−two members present. and my gentle teacher had been much pleased with the progress I had made. for here was I. who said that her age was thirty−one. very much in love with Yoletta. filled me with anxiety. this had served to make me diligent and attentive with my lessons.Chapter 12
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I at last gave up the hunt. Of course I was surrounded with mysteries. I put it to myself in a variety of ways. and studious was a safe plan. Mine was a curious position for a man to be in.
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The question whether I had reason to feel happy or the reverse still occupied me after going to bed. And if
. and I had already arrived at the conclusion that these mysteries could only be known to me through reading. and yet who knew of only one kind of love−−that sisterly affection which she gave me so unstintingly. concentrating my faculties on it. to detect anything like love−making or flirting. or. and kept me awake far into the night. it would probably be regarded as a result of the supposed collision of my head with a stone. being in the house but not of it. as Yoletta treated me. nothing more than a slight down on the upper lip and cheeks? It was plain that they never shaved. while the other men. of various ages. and walked soberly home by myself. even in a few days. For it seemed rather a dangerous thing to ask questions. once that accomplishment was mine. And were these people all really brothers and sisters? So far. they all treated each other. and all the curious information I had gathered from it. since the most innocent interrogatory might be taken as an offense. with kindness and affection. To be reticent. and nothing more. but the result still remained doubtful. Her words on the hill had now. wondering whether that conversation on the summit of the hill. I had been unable. observant. and I wanted to go a little below the surface of this strange system of life. however. why was the father of the house adorned with a majestic beard. or. more curious still.

although not without a nervous qualm. also to know more of the one female in this mysterious community who had loved. For very long she has been afflicted with a malady from which she cannot recover. She looked at me with the greatest surprise. that you never asked till now! There is a mother of the house−−the mother of us all. next day. "Do you mean to say. but the result of my cogitations was one happy idea−−to ask Yoletta whether she had a living mother or not? She was my teacher. and she is not among us because of her illness. or at all events had known marriage. after some hesitation. Yoletta?" I returned. then. an offense. and anxious to repair my fault. in a low and very sad voice. and if it should turn out that the question was an unfortunate one. bursting into tears. and for a whole year she has not left the Mother's Room. It was only too plain now that in my ignorance I had been guilty of a grave breach of the etiquette or laws of the house. "Yes.Chapter 12
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the head of the house was in fact the father of them all−−since in two centuries a man might have an indefinite number of children−−who was the mother or mothers? I was never good at guessing. You have not seen her because you have never asked to be taken to her. and it happens. she exclaimed: "Oh. too. as soon as we were alone together I put the question to her." she answered." she answered. I asked if I might see her. "that you do not know I have a mother−−that there is a mother of the house?" "How should I know. how is one to know anything in a strange place unless he is told?" "How strange. Smith. of you since you were made one of us. still standing with eyes cast down." She spoke with eyes cast down. that I am her daughter−−her only child. besides. Accordingly. she would be readier to forgive than another. my friend and guardian in the house. how could you be in the world and not know that there is a mother in every
. Then suddenly. "I have not heard you address any one as mother.

nevertheless. she rose and took my hand. of whose existence I had never before heard. left alone. and the interview would reveal something to me. except in an indirect way which I failed to understand. "Come. she went from the room. that I refrained from pressing her with questions. How well I remembered that first evening in the house. after greeting the father. were not to be gratified. sorrowful world. was the daughter of a woman actually living in the house. who had told me that there was only one kind of love. which made them seem like the dwellers in some better place than this poor old sinful. At length. recovering from her tears. and for several days nothing more was spoken between us on the subject. one day when our lesson was over. yet never ventured to ask for enlightment! Presently." I knew she was going to take me to her mother. seemed like a dream to me. and we waited in vain for you to speak?" I was dumb with shame at her words. however. and. for presently Yoletta returned and said that her mother did not desire to see me then. the fact that this passionless girl.
. with an expression of mingled pleasure and anxiety on her face. My wishes. She looked so distressed when she told me this. when I could not but see that something was expected of me. putting her white arms about my neck as if to console me for my disappointment. saying. you first of all ask to be taken to the mother to worship her and feel her hand on your head? Did you not see that we were astonished and grieved at your silence when you came.Chapter 12
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house! How could you travel and not know that when you enter a house. Now I was about to see this hidden woman. and rose to obey her gladly. for I would discover in her face and conversation whether she was in the same mystic state of mind as the others. for since the conversation I had had with her the desire to know the lady of the house had given me no peace. I had not imagined that she had come into the world without a mother. I was more than ever filled with wonder at what she had told me.

ending at the further extremity at a flight of broad stone steps. standing or seated on great stone chairs in various positions and attitudes. I could see no one that was like it. so profoundly did one of the statues impress me. Here Yoletta pushed a glass door aside and ushered me into
. as I imagined. but vaster. a great company of men and women. amazed at the scene before me. singly and in groups. but sufficient to show the whole room with everything in it. The light. and on this higher level I saw. The middle part of the floor. beautiful face. considerably longer. narrow windows. Even more wonderful in their resemblance to life were the eyes. until Yoletta took my hand and gently drew me away. while with the other she seemed in the act of throwing back her white unbound tresses from her forehead. Presently I perceived that these were not living beings. but when I got to the middle of the room I paused involuntarily once more. Arrived at the end of the gallery. which was covered with mosaic. that only when I ascended the steps and touched the head of one of the statues was I convinced that it was also of stone. but on either side of this passage. or. one hand pressed to her bosom. running the entire length of the apartment. a look of calm. was dim. unbending pride on the face. She sat bending forward with her eyes fixed on mine as I advanced. we ascended the broad stone steps. and came to a landing twenty or thirty feet above the level of the floor we had traversed. So natural did the hair look. of the same nave−like form. There I started and stood still. we entered another apartment. It was of a woman of a majestic figure and proud. I hurried on after my guide without speaking. I thought. in spite of the absorbing nature of the matter on which I was bound. having the appearance of real garments. was about twenty feet wide. which seemed to return my half−fearful glances with a calm. which found entrance through tall. that strange face continued to haunt me. the drapery they were represented as wearing being of many different richly−colored stones. Still. that I stood gazing like one fascinated.Chapter 12
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Leaving the music room. but on coming closer this expression disappeared. beautiful women. and glancing up and down through that long array of calm−browed. There was. the floor was raised. at all events. so charged with subtle pain. questioning scrutiny I found it hard to endure. but life−like effigies of stone. giving place to one so wistful and pleading. with an abundance of silvery−white hair.

Chastel. for these seemed rather to belong to that imperfect world from which I had been severed. longer than the others. In other respects also she differed from the rest of the women. embroidered with saffron−colored flowers and foliage down the middle. with so many about her. the air in it was also warm and balmy. and was just now showing her a sketch." said the old man to her. stood silent and awkward in her presence. her dress being a long. low. and seemed charged with a subtle aroma. But now my whole attention was concentrated on a group of persons before me. two of the young women sat at her feet on cushions. in a dimly−lighted chamber. at the same time bestowing an encouraging look on me. but dearer than all these things to my mind were the marks of passion it exhibited. couch−like seat. and. holding her hand and talking in low tones to her. in spite of suffering. and the half−eager. I had expected to find a sick. suffering face. and. and chiefly on its central figure−−the woman I had so much desired to see. for. violet−colored material. it was beautiful and loving. There was something wonderfully fascinating to me in that pale.Chapter 12
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another apartment−−the Mother's Room. feeble lady. and of a deeper green. and bore on her worn countenance the impress of long−continued suffering. My very first glance at her face revealed to me that she differed in appearance and expression from other inmates of the house: one reason was that she was extremely pale. almost scornful mouth. pale−blue robe. with perhaps one attendant at her side. "This is our stranger. It was spacious. which fell unbound on her shoulders. coming so unexpectedly before this proud−looking. unlike the gallery. while another stood behind her. feeling too confused to say anything. the petulant. and also on the neck and the wide sleeves. leaning back in a somewhat listless attitude. She wore her hair. half−weary expression of the eyes. On the couch at her side sat the father of the house. but that was not all. I was completely abashed. covered with a soft. engaged on embroidery work. and her eyes looked larger. and apparently explaining something in it.
. She was seated. on a very large. beautiful woman. well−lighted. now. one of the young men was also there. and which was still dear to my unregenerate heart.

addressing me directly. and then." she remarked after a while." said he. distant island." I could make no reply to these words. that I had asked to be allowed to see her as soon as I had been informed of her existence. having customs different from ours−−a thing I had never heard of before. turning to me. discovered in the woods.Chapter 12
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She turned from the sketch she had been studying. I can give you no other explanation." I found my speech then−−a wretched. only his curious garments and his words that astonished us. I could see no sympathy in them for me." I felt my face grow hot with shame and anger. but presently. She made no answer to this. I must regret that you ever left your own home. and looking at the other faces. That you went out to travel so poorly provided with knowledge is a marvel to us. semi−human creature." said the father in reply. for which I hated myself−−and replied. and brought in as a great curiosity. it was not his countenance." Her lip curled. fixed her dark eyes on me with some interest. for she seemed to look on me and speak of me−−not to me−−as if I had been some strange. and as I have had the pain of telling you this. "You must remember. "I do not see why you were so much impressed. She turned on the father a look of surprise and inquiry. she continued: "If there are houses in your island without mothers in them. as
. "There is nothing very strange in him after all. Chastel. and raising herself slightly from her half−recumbent attitude. which fell on me like whip−strokes. "that he comes to us from some strange. it is not so elsewhere in the world. hesitating speech. said: "You were a long time in the house before you expressed a wish to see me. "No.

she. took my hand and led me from the room. if I felt so minded. now I was sitting quietly by myself. stony occupants. Following its banks for about a mile. I began to be affected by the
. but when the surface was once more still and smooth as dark glass. rose to the surface of the stream half a dozen yards from my feet. breaking the clear image reflected there with a hundred ripples. whose friendship I most needed. To this sequestered spot I had come to indulge my resentful feelings. it plunged noisily again under water." she presently added in a petulant tone. safe from observation. I hurried away from the house. and that from no fault of my own. to brood in secret on my pain and the bitterness of defeat. and it seemed to me that if she had spoken one word. round and fierce. was become my enemy in the house. With eyes cast down I passed through the gallery. and kept back by dark thoughts on the way. where there were no witnesses to hear me. paying no attention to its strange. the expression they wore was love and devotion to her only. and Yoletta. felt towards me nothing but contempt and aversion. and leaving my gentle conductress without a word at the door of the music−room. I had restrained those unmanly tears. my overcharged heart would have found vent in tears. and wish to rest". since seeing her. I only wished to be alone. for it was plain that the woman I had so wished to see. for here I could speak out my bitterness aloud. and. For I could feel love and compassion in the touch of the dear girl's hand. who had been standing silently by me all the time. so wished to be allowed to love. safe even from that sympathy my bruised spirit could not suffer. reminding me a little of the angel faces on Guide's canvas of the "Coronation of the Virgin. I came at last to a grove of stately old trees.Chapter 12
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they looked at her−−their mother−−and listened to her words. and there I seated myself on a large twisted root projecting over the water." "Go now. then quickly catching sight of me. so nearly shed in Yoletta's presence. I waited for the last wavelet to fade away. Scarcely had I seated myself before a great brown animal. with black eyes. "I am tired. My steps took me to the river.

it said "Hush!" until the tumult in me was still. and by a something proceeding from nature−−phantom. neutral ground. until it ceased. and wreathing its ghostly arms about the old trees: and watching the mist. the level rays shining through imparted to the sere leaves a translucence and splendor that was like the stained glass in the windows of some darkening cathedral. not my sense. My soul. Far away in the dim distance. in some blue pasture. a robin−like sound. and yet again. perceived it. touching other leaves in its fall until the silent grass received it. as I listened for another leaf. Nature. a cow was lowing. I know not what. and wherever the foliage was thinnest. breathless. and filling the wide. and again. When I looked up a change had come over the scene: the round. while others in deeper shade looked by contrast like pillars of ebony. and the recurring sound passed me like the humming flight of an insect. and I could not think my own thoughts. I heard it fluttering downwards. full moon had risen. I felt that there was no longer any anger in my heart. the clear amber sunlight passing undimmed through its substance.Chapter 12
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profounded silence and melancholy of nature. affecting the mind like a spray of gold and scarlet embroidery on a pale. kindled the boles of the old trees here and there into pillars of red fire. which gave no reflection of its image. silvering the mist. standing with finger on lips. I could thereafter only listen. drowning the reeds and bushes. dim earth with a new mysterious glory. and in setting. and unexpected. emanation. The sun went down. suddenly from overhead came the brief gushing melody of some late singer. ringing out clear and distinct as a flourish on a clarionet: brilliant. yet in keeping with that melancholy quiet. To my soul its spoken "Hush!" was audible. and with that new insight and comprehension which had come to me−−that message. there. and something in and yet more than nature. had imparted her "soft influences" and healed her "wandering and distempered child" until he could no more be a "jarring and discordant thing" in her sweet and sacred presence.
. close to me. essence. I rose from my seat and returned to the house. joyous. All along the river a white mist began to rise. its feet resting on the motionless water. however faint. A withered leaf fell from the tree−top. and listening to the "hallowed airs and symphonies" whispered by the low wind. straining my senses to catch some natural sound. then fainter still. a slight wind sprang up and the vapor drifted. Then. like an imagined sound.

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As I approached the building. seen me enter. There were no lights in the long gallery when we entered it again.
. was present with them. when I reached the middle of the room. Once more. "And why do you look so sad?" "Do you need to ask. for presently she came to me. Yoletta had. only the white moonbeams coming through the tall windows here and there lit up a column or a group of statues. however. and. I paused. and I knew that the sweet spirit of music. not so. and my only desire was to show my devotion to her. Smith?" she said. it would have made me so happy if I could have won your mother's affection! If she only knew how much I wish for it. wistful face and silvery hair. the moonlight streaming full on her pale. for there before me. ever bending forward. Yoletta? Ah. and I resolved to do as she wished. sat that wonderful woman of stone. but she was my guide. my teacher and friend in the house. After listening for awhile in the shadow of the portico I went in.Chapter 13
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as I could not but regard it−−I now felt nothing but love and sympathy for the suffering woman who had wounded me with her unmerited displeasure. black shadows on floor and Wall. stole away into a dusky corner. and how much I sympathize with her! But she will never like me. anxious to avoid disturbing the singers." she said. "Why did you not come in to supper. which threw long. "Come with me to her now: if you feel like that. giving the chamber a weird appearance. she will be kind to you−−how should it be otherwise?" I greatly feared that she advised me to take an imprudent step. where I sat down by myself. and all I wished to say to her must be left unsaid. soft strains floating far out into the night−air became audible." "No. to which they were all so devoted.

and in this inscription on the stone. and the crowning calamity of her life was the loss of seven loved sons. and gave that expression to her face. and the inscription. which she caused to be put on the stone. then it is a very old family tradition." It oppressed my mind to think of so long a period of time during which that unutterably sad face had gazed down on so many generations of the living. and did not return when expected: for many years she waited for tidings of them. who is this?" I whispered. It was conjectured that a great rock had fallen on and crushed them beneath it. the statue shall be removed from its place and destroyed." "Oh. "But do you think it right. haunting expression on her face? Was she unhappy?" "Oh. and her name was Isarte. and the name of Isarte forgotten in the house. you can read about her in the history of the house. that the grief of one person should be perpetuated like that in the house. "It is most strange!" I murmured. It was her wish that the grief she endured should be remembered in the house for all time. says that if there shall ever come to a mother in the house a sorrow exceeding hers. "Is it a statue of some one who lived in this house?" "Yes." "And when did this happen?" "Over two thousand years ago.Chapter 13
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"Tell me. Grief for her lost children made her hair white. even when it is remembered that the
. and the fragments buried in the earth with all forgotten things. for who can look on this face without pain. Yoletta. for no one had ever suffered like her. can you not see that she was unhappy! She endured many sorrows." "But why has she that strange. But the statue−−when was that made and placed here?" "She had it made and placed here herself. Yoletta. She was a mother. They were away in the mountains together.

In the pale light of the moon−−for there was no other in the room−−we found Chastel on the couch where I had seen her before." she replied. And you may also leave me now." she said." she said. The two then departed together." a successor to this very Isarte. mingling with the others. bell−like voice was heard. and had only one attendant with her. and I at once began. the large glass door of which now stood wide open. the woman I was now going to see was also a "mother in the house. but a mother is different: her wishes are sacred. and proceeding on our way. but soon this ceased to be
. which soared to greater heights. and I proceeded to seat myself on a cushion beside the couch. "Let him sit near me." "Yes.Chapter 13
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sorrow it expresses ended so many centuries ago?" "But she was a mother. if you will hear him. Smith. and what she wills is right. do you not understand? It would not be right for us to wish to have our griefs remembered for ever. Yoletta approached her. Fearing that I had touched on a dangerous topic. and now. "Wait until this ends−−I am listening to Yoletta's voice. a clearer. before I had spoken two words. "Hush. I said no more. stooping. moreover. "I have brought Smith again. "Mother. we soon reached the mother's room. dusky gallery and the open doors soft strains of music were floating to us. touched her lips to the pale. to cause sorrow to those who succeed us. he is anxious to say something to you. The words were not very encouraging. still face." Her words surprised me not a little. and. and now go back. "What is it you wish to say to me?" she asked. for your voice is needed. but her voice sounded gentler now. but never of women." she added. addressing the other lady. but she was lying extended at full length now." Through the long. for I had heard of infallible men. I will hear him.

and there I sat until the moon rose. and I wished above all things in the world to be allowed to love and serve you." I returned. and to know all their comings and goings. Would it not have been strange if I had not felt extremely unhappy?" "Oh." "Your words seem only sweet and gracious now. Reading and work of all kinds are a pain and weariness. and no other person can say what I did." she replied. for you were not at supper?" "Did you know that?" I asked in surprise. It is right to repent your faults. for I was alone. No other person would have experienced the feelings you speak of for such a cause. and to wish to cast the blame of your suffering on another. but it is a sign of an undisciplined spirit to feel bitterness. "now I can understand the reason of the surprise your words have often caused in the house! Your very feelings seem unlike ours." "Then. I know everything that passes in the house. You also forget my continual suffering. My life is nothing now but a shadow of other people's lives. The only thing left to me is to listen to what others do or say." "What made you have those feelings?" "When I heard of you. "Yes. "Where have you been all the evening. and saw you." I said. and to bear the burden of them quietly. which sometimes makes me seem harsh and unkind against my will. with my heart full of unspeakable pain and bitterness. but your looks and words expressed only contempt and dislike towards me. "They have lifted a great weight from my heart. and to have a share in your affection. and I wish I could repay you for them
. "I must tell you how I spent the time after seeing you to−day. You forget that I had reason to be deeply offended with you. I went away along the river until I came to the grove of great trees on the bank.Chapter 13
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distinguishable. my heart was drawn to you. and then she sighed and addressed me again.

"To be lifted above the others. I made no reply. "Oh. when I offered mine. and vain clinging to life. to have one child only. young. and to a stone. bravely met. to be smitten with barrenness. This only a mother can know. and it may be that I shall find comfort even in speaking to the dead. is nothing in comparison with a lingering agony like mine. and
." I knew what she meant. caught my fingers with a nervous grasp and drew herself to a sitting position. for my grief is more than I can bear." I could not understand all her words. since any one of my children would gladly lay down his life to procure me ease. "Take me up in your arms and carry me to Isarte." To this speech. among the dead. even when it has ceased to have any hope or joy in it. clasping me round the neck. that is why it is so bitter to think of. and." she answered gravely. is the penalty she must pay for her higher state." "It is right that you should have that feeling. In old age the feelings are not so keen. I will go to you. this is bitterness indeed−−a bitterness you cannot know. when so young." she resumed after a while. why must I be afflicted with a misery others have not known!" she exclaimed excitedly. extending to years. "Ah. Isarte." Then suddenly she put out her hands towards me. which sounded like another rebuke. with its long days and longer nights. then after so brief a period of happiness. "For you and for others there is always the refuge of death from continued sufferings: the brief pang of dissolution. but idle to express it. and in obedience to her command I raised her from the couch.Chapter 13
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by taking some portion of your suffering on myself." "Yes. Can you bear me in your arms?" she said. She was tall. having so recently heard the story of Isarte. "If such wishes could be fulfilled my sufferings would have long ceased. since the horror of utter darkness. and that great blackness of the end ever before the mind. and this lingering malady ever gnawing like a canker at the roots of life! Who has suffered like me in the house? You only. and only murmured in reply: "You are young to speak of death.

For there is no one living that can understand my pain. for I am barren and eaten up by death. nerved me to my task. desponding tones. therefore in the hunger of your heart you looked far off into the future. leaving no one with your blood and your spirit to inherit the house. and suffer without hope. as you suffered. how sorely does the hunger in my heart tempt me to sin! But suffering has not darkened my reason. "Isarte. and love your memory. and cover me with your grief−whitened hair as with a mantle. and exceeded mine. and loving and worshiping her with her heart!" The excitement had now burned itself out: she had dropped her head wearily on my shoulder. This also is my grief. where some one would perhaps have a like affliction. When I had safely
. she put her arms about the statue. even over the gulf of long centuries of time. and cautiously moving step by step through the gloom. and his life is nearly complete. and for one brief hour to bring back to it the vanished spirit of Isarte. For your pain was like mine. When I had ascended the steps and brought her sufficiently near. and feel united with you.Chapter 13
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heavier than I had expected. calling her mother. Isarte. When I am gone. and the mother of the house. and yet not yours. You would speak to me of it all. This thought restrains me. I know it is an offense to ask anything of Him who gives us life and all good things freely. when I look into these eyes. serving her with her hands. and my one only child will sit at her feet. my sister. how bitter to think of it! for then a stranger will be the mother of the house. but you would understand it. and must soon go away to be where you are. but the thought that she was Yoletta's mother. else I would cry to Him to turn this stone to flesh. and in a little while he will follow me. and measure your pain. though so greatly emaciated. moonlit woman of stone in the long gallery. And who will then inherit our place? Ah. for he is old. and pressed its stony lips with hers. and has no pleasure in seeing us miserable. how cold your lips are!" she murmured. and kiss these stony lips. Isarte. and no soul could measure it. the father of the house will take no other one to his bosom. in low. and tell me that the greatest grief was to go away into darkness. I carried her safely to that white−haired. and put my tired head against your breast. "Now. and bade me take her back. but with no pain and anguish like mine to cloud his serene spirit. which are yours.

"This. All others would be equally miserable. and perhaps one of their unhappy methods is to seek to medicine a real misery by imagining some impossible and
. while I sat by her. I imagined. The scene in the gallery had deeply affected me. pondering over it. about which I heard a great deal when you first came to us. Life is dark to me.Chapter 13
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deposited her on the couch again. but not to others: these are matters beyond you. and where the lot of so many poor suffering souls seemed to me so much more desolate than that of this unhappy lady. is another of those grotesque fancies you sometimes give expression to. But I had not proceeded far with my picture before she interrupted me. I ventured. much to console her. on an equality−−all possessing the same capacity for suffering. and. when she had grown calm again. the one glory of my life could not exist in such a state as that." she said. and where all were. and all women wives and mothers seems to me a very disordered and a very repulsive idea The one consolation in my pain. and it is presumptuous in one of your condition to attempt to comfort me with idle fancies. in one sense. The human race would multiply. silently weeping. to tell her some of my memories. and earth would be filled with degenerate beings. she resumed: "The father has said to−day that you came to us from an island where even the customs of the people are different from ours. in which all women were. I asked her to imagine a state of the world and the human family. my mind reverted to that vanished world of sorrow and different social conditions in which I had lived. however. wives and mothers. thinking that it would perhaps divert her mind from brooding too much over her own troubles. with an accent of displeasure. until the fruits of the soil would be insufficient for its support. It even seemed to me that the grief I had witnessed was somewhat morbid and overstrained. "Do not say more. now." After some moments of silence. and without any such mysterious remedy against lingering pain as she had spoken of. starved in body and debased in mind−−all clinging to an existence utterly without joy. who had. and my condition would be pitiable indeed. I suppose. or would be. she remained for some minutes with her face covered. That all people should be equal.

" This unexpected and sharp rebuke did not anger me. in periods of suffering. that would be to put to an unlawful use. and. but shall be glad to know that there is another soul in the house to love and honor me. for although it is conceivable that present misery might be mitigated. or forgotten for a season. I shall not remember your offense. and presently Yoletta came to me there. which may sometimes. In no other way can I account for your strange words to me. but will endeavor to purify yourself from a mental vice. I sat down on a bench under a tree. went out to the terrace. feverish white hand on mine. You must now leave me. dearest. Wandering a little distance away by myself. We have a different way. even by summoning before the mind repulsive and horrible images.Chapter 13
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immeasurably greater one." she said. "You need not go away again. "to indulge in bitter feelings by yourself because I have said this to you. since it was necessary to be so very circumspect with her. give you a false comfort for a brief season. the brightest faculties our Father has given us: therefore we seek no other support in all sufferings and calamities but that of reason only. by giving up the soul to delusions. you will not speak of such things again. Remember that I do not ask or desire to be informed. and I should have been happier if only−−" But I checked myself in time. and said no more to her
. finding it empty. I rose to depart. Deeply troubled. conversing and enjoying the lovely moonlight." With such comfort as these words afforded I returned to the music−room. "Have you nothing to tell me?" she asked. for I cannot believe that any race exists so debased as actually to practice the things you speak of. where the others were now strolling about in knots and couples. but it made me very sad. "Are you happier now?" "Yes. only to degrade you. Then she placed her thin. for I have been spoke to very kindly. and sink you later in a deeper misery. and to pervert. for I now perceived plainly enough that no great advantage would come to me from Chastel's acquaintance. You may come with the others to see me and talk to me whenever I am able to sit here and bear it. and closely scrutinized my face. If you wish for my affection. and in a somewhat confused state of mind.

and the color a most vivid orange yellow. and watched the slow growth of the long. in a moist hollow of the forest. and sometimes to touch her thin white hand with my lips. luring me on. or describe all I had seen. sharing equally with the others in her impartial affection. but very soon they were equally abundant on the higher lands. stony places. since the name of "rainbow lily. had led me to expect a
. where they appeared latest. these visits failed to bring me into any closer relationship with the lady of the house. At first I found them in the moist valley of the river. In shape it resembled a tulip. which had floated before me. and serve her." and Yoletta's words. and soon discovered that everywhere under the grass they were beginning to sprout from the soil. at any rate. but. and to seem further and further away. or. that it was for me to love. it had a slight delicate perfume. and even on barren. of which Yoletta had spoken so enthusiastically. once for all. stick to my own resolution to hold my tongue about them?"
Chapter 14
From that day I was frequently allowed to enter the Mother's Room. with a peculiar waxy gloss on the thick petals. now began to look pale. slender buds from day to day with considerable impatience. I was rather disappointed. but was more open. I was delighted to find the full−blown flower. and was very pretty. as I had feared. But the distance separating us was not forgotten. At the two first interviews she had taught me. and privileged to sit at her feet to relate to her the incidents of the day. She had indeed forgotten my offense: I was one of her children. that island! Why can't I forget its miserable customs. and that anything beyond that−−any attempt to win her confidence. honor.Chapter 14
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about my conversation with the mother. that island. still. and that vision of exquisite bliss in the future. At length. I felt very curious about these flowers. or make her understand my feelings and aspirations−−was regarded as pure presumption on my part. To myself I said: "Oh. The result was that I was less happy than I had been before knowing her: my naturally buoyant and hopeful temper became tinged with melancholy. to enter into her thoughts. After my walk with Yoletta−−if it can be called a walk−−I began to look out for the rainbow lilies.

and in the hands of the others. After changing my dress on returning from the fields one afternoon. and said nothing about it to any one. except for funeral ceremonies." she returned. the rent extending down to about the middle of the page. with tearful eyes and flushed face. pointing to the open volume. nor had I ever seen one in the house. but on arriving at that uncomfortable apartment I perceived that this was not the case. father. "My daughter. Presently the dear girl appeared. On the great stone table. before any more open lilies were found. They never wore a flower. I plucked the lily carefully. she stood before him with downcast eyes. I dropped the lily on the ground. before which the father was seated. and was taking it home to present it to her. I was taken to the hall of judgment. stony flowers of many brilliant hues in their mosaics. look at this. and at once jumped to the conclusion that I had again unwittingly fallen into disgrace. and those wrought in metal and carved in wood. and I even wished that my first impression had proved correct. and touching the lower end of the colored margin with her finger. and that was when they were burying their dead. and my heart sank in me. and afraid of offending from want of thought. I began to fear that there was some superstition which made it seem wrong to them to gather flowers. "Do you see how badly it
. the leaf displayed being only illuminated at the top and inner margin. and the immortal. not even in that room where Chastel was kept a prisoner by her malady. and where her greatest delight was to have nature in all its beauty and fragrance brought to her in the conversation of her children. an unexpected sorrow came to me. the colored part at the top I noticed was torn. Then. half−sobbing. The only flowers in the house were in their illuminations. lay an open folio. when all at once I remembered that only on one occasion had I seen flowers in her hand. "Oh. tell me how and why you did this?" he demanded. and advancing hurriedly to the father. Looking round at the assembled company I missed Yoletta.Chapter 14
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many−colored flower of surpassing beauty.

she said: "Oh father. an unkind deed a worse. For thirty days you must live apart from us. for it is the flaw in the stone that keeps its place. But an injury done to the house cannot be forgotten. will you forgive me?" "Forgive you. who will assist you with your work and provide you with all things necessary. and it would not be right that Yoletta's name should be remembered for the wrong she did to the house. for we consider your youth and impulsive nature. and coming to this leaf will be offended at so grievous a disfigurement! If we of this generation were destined to live for ever. but how can this offense to the house be forgiven. and also that the wrong you did was partly the result of accident. An unkind word is an evil thing. inharmonious color which cannot be washed out with water. and the writing we leave on it. that too remains for ever. or accident. then. subsisting on bread and water.
. Consider. but she was not perhaps of the same mind. and still it displeased me. in the long life of the house. the crude. and holding intercourse with one person only. as if in gratitude for his leniency. lifting her tear−stained face. for she kissed his hand. it will be a light one. my daughter? Do you not know how it grieves my heart to punish you. rather. how many unborn men will turn the leaves of this book. what must my punishment be?" "Dear child.Chapter 14
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is colored? And I had spent three days in altering and retouching it. which must stand in evidence against us from generation to generation? For we cease to be. Oh. Then. and it was torn by the weight of the book. I pushed the book from me. but the house remains. dear father. and seeing it slipping from the stand I caught the leaf to prevent it from falling. "But we must pass away and be nothing to succeeding generations. but when these are repented they may be forgiven and forgotten. and all she did for its good forgotten. in sudden anger. then it might be written on this page for a punishment and warning:" Yoletta tore it in her anger. whether it be good or evil. my daughter." This seemed to me a harsh." A painful silence ensued. even a cruel punishment for so trivial an offense.

and in a moment she was gone from sight. which fitly brought each tranquil day to its close. like one on whom some heavy calamity has fallen: all interest in my work was lost. regarding nature in some of its moods and
. my food seemed tasteless. above them all. The gradual opening of the rainbow lilies served only to remind me every hour and every minute of that bright young spirit thus harshly deprived of the pleasure she had so eagerly anticipated. when it was customary for the family to gather in the music−room. and could only end in utter misery−−perhaps in destruction−−or else in a degree of happiness no mortal had ever tasted before. study and conversation had become a weariness. and regarding her with misty eyes." They were treating her very hardly−−father and mother both−−I thought in my bitterness. "who shall attend you in your seclusion?" "Edra. even in those divine concerts. rejoiced in the beauty of this visible world. I gazed eagerly after her as she retired. by means of some roundabout questioning. for at this hour. I went about listlessly. there was no charm now. This was told me." she murmured. but they were filled with tears and bent on the floor. she being." he said. The succeeding days were to me dreary beyond description. since Yoletta's voice. probably because her "sufferings had not clouded her understanding. and the exclusion extended also to the others. above the law. Edra only excepted. For the first time I became fully conscious of the strength of a passion which had now become a consuming fire in my breast. coming forward. as it were.Chapter 14
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"Tell me. which love had taught my dull ear to distinguish no longer had any part in it. and I also elicited. I was not allowed to enter the Mother's Room of an evening now. child. that it was always in the mother's power to have any per−son undergoing punishment taken to her. and the other. although in this case she had not chosen to exercise her prerogative. Yoletta was taken from her lonely chamber to be with her mother. took her by the hand and led her away. hungering for one look from her dear eyes before that long separation. putting his hand on her head. She could even pardon a delinquent and set him free if she felt so minded. She.

and presently a number of horses. all the members of the family.Chapter 14
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aspects with a feeling almost bordering on adoration. as if the very elements held the lilies sacred and ventured not to cast any shadow over their mystic splendor. and this also had many gradations. but. seemingly without any particular object. The contagion did not affect me. resembling that of the forget−me−not and hairbell. from pale primrose to deep orange. which could be heard distinctly two miles away. bright days without a cloud succeeded each other. The weather proved singularly favorable to those who spent their time in admiring the lilies. Calm. Each morning one of the men would go out some distance from the house and blow on a horn. Now I knew why these autumnal flowers were called rainbow lilies. sick Chastel. however. and excessively fond of horseback exercise. but high on the mountains the color was blue. and in all moist situations. one color blending with. excepting. would come galloping in. These horses were now in constant requisition. this passing again into vivid scarlet and reds of many shades. and remembered how Yoletta had told me that they gave a beauty to the earth which could not be described or imagined. varying. alas! she alone was shut out from this glory which God had spread over the earth for the delight of all his children. of course. for. the hue was yellow. and myself−−I being too forlorn to admire anything. On the plains the reds prevailed. where they first began to bloom. although I had always been a bold rider (in my own country). their fashion of riding without bridles. and on
. Along the valleys. male and female. after which they would remain all the morning grazing and gamboling about the house. according to the nature of the soil on which they grew. changing into various purples on hills and mountain slopes. The flowers were all undoubtedly of one species. wherever the soil altered its character. having the same shape and perfume. or passing by degrees into another. But in different situations they varied in color. imprisoned Yoletta. although varying greatly in size. and this now seemed to be almost the only occupation of the inmates. from the lower deep cornflower blue to a delicate azure on the summits. according to the amount of moisture in different places. spending several hours every day in careering over the surrounding country. in couples and troops.

then his horse began rubbing his nose on my hand. but I confess it surprises me as much to see you going to work on a day like this. except that which is pressing and necessary. but the wealth it brings to the soul remains to gladden us. which flew out in two long streamers behind. and rushing away towards the hills at an insanely break−neck pace. just as we have in the house every day our time of melody and recreation. swept gracefully round in narrowing circles. until he came to a stand at my side." "Why?" said I. But this supreme and more enduring glory of nature comes only once every year. At night we sleep. and dangling your heels in the air. and. are the precious moments when nature reveals herself to us in all her beauty. and an offense to the Father of the world. which have a certain amount of pleasure in them. "if you cannot be happy unless you are laboring in the forest with your ax you must proceed with your wood−cutting. while the wind of his speed divided his beard. we eat when we are hungry. immersed in thought. mounted on his charger. "Smith. in the morning we bathe. with a grave smile. its breath feeling like fire on my skin. All at once he caught sight of me. and she refreshes us. and on most days labor a certain number of hours. His long garment was gathered tightly round his spare form. seemed to me neither safe nor pleasant. and was proceeding slowly.Chapter 14
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diminutive straw saddles. But more than these things. to the forest. surprised at this speech. I turned and beheld the venerable father. One morning after breakfasting. as it would to see you walking inverted on your hands." He paused. his feet drawn up and his head bent far forward. We give ourselves wholly to her then. I took my ax. touching the animal's neck." said he. That must be a dull spirit that cannot suspend its toil when the sun is setting in glory. each circle bringing him nearer. is unseemly. "If you do not know I must tell you. or the violet rainbow appears on the cloud. all labor. and while it lasts. and presently he resumed:
. converse when we feel inclined. the splendor fades. when hearing a slight swishing sound of hoofs on the grass. Every day brings us special moments to gladden us. but I did not know what to say in reply.

"Why is your mind troubled. with downcast eyes. wishing. I flew back to the house. "the beauty of the earth is very much to me. I have also thought much of Yoletta during these beautiful days. nor was the bridle missed. that word which I now ventured to use for the first time trembling from my lips. oppressed by heart.Chapter 14
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"My son. and the thought takes away all my pleasure. for I had greatly feared that I had adopted too bold a course. for. which gave me some pain. and this morning I have allowed her to go out into the hills. but from a tender love and compassion−−that most precious of all our emotions. charging over rough ground with a pack of lions at its heels." I answered." Scarcely waiting for another word to be spoken. does not proceed from an incapacity on your part to feel as we do. and she will not see them. "For I see now. at least." I was about to thank him and turn back." "My son. somewhat to my surprise. but I cannot help remembering that to Yoletta it is even more." he answered. owing to the absence of forests." he continued. up hills. "Father. down valleys. which will serve to draw you closer to us. Away I went at a speed never perhaps attained by any winner of the Derby. grieving for her. "that this seeming indifference. where. there are horses waiting for you. you will now take one and ride to the hills. nerved with that intense desire to find and speak to my love. The little straw saddle seemed now as comfortable as a couch. my son?" he said kindly. to whom each heavy day now seemed a year. and I continued standing motionless. the earth can now be seen at its best. anxious enough for a ride now. The flowers will fade. which made the shining hairs of my horse's mane whistle in the still air. so that during this day. to speak. she will be able to share in our pleasure. I am glad to hear these words. and unless you are more unlike us in mind than I ever imagined. yet fearing. but the thought of Yoletta. flying like a bird over roaring
. I could have ridden securely on the slippery back of a giraffe.

and these two existed in my mind. I then ascended a great green hill. rocks. however beautiful. the strugglings of my soul to recover that lost life. but at a little distance the sober green of the grass became absorbed. blown to some far planet whose strange aspect. as it were. which I did walking and climbing. and the neighboring summits all appeared of a pure cerulean hue. into which it must at last sink down and perish. my steed docilely scrambling up after me. and thoughts of long years−−an experience which sometimes comes to a person suddenly confronted with death. how awful my position seemed! It was like that of one beneath whose feet the world suddenly crumbles into ashes and dust. and passing away. and without perspective. of the past and the present. blown away a thousand miles over the sea. Lower down this passed into the purples of the slopes and the reds of the plains. it left me weary and despondent.Chapter 14
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burns. for I had now given up all hopes of seeing Yoletta. and the knowledge only intensified my pain. Such a mental state cannot endure for more than a few moments. A thousand memories and a thousand thoughts were stirring in me: I was conscious now. When I had at length reached this elevation. never pausing until I was far away among those hills where that strange accident had befallen me. as I had not been before. that my agitation. feelings. For the first time I experienced within myself that miraculous power the mind possesses of reproducing instantaneously. How aimless and solitary. the events. and in other moments of supreme agitation.
. and is scattered throughout the illimitable void. while he survives. were like the vain wing−beats of some woodland bird. fills him with an undefinable terror. smiting my heart with a pain intense and unfamiliar. not yet having encountered a single person since starting for my ride. the richness and novelty of the unimaginable and indescribable scene which opened before me affected me in a strange way. joyless eyes I continued gazing for upwards of an hour on the prospect beneath me. in the brighter flower−tints. yet separated by a great gulf of time−−a blank and a nothingness which yet oppressed me with its horrible vastness. All about me the summit was dotted with small lilies of a delicate blue. the top of which must have been over a thousand feet above the surrounding country. and from which I had recovered to find the earth so changed. And I knew. With dull. and thorny bushes.

had a subduing and harmonizing effect on the sea of brilliant color. Over this flowery paradise my eyes wandered restlessly. however beautiful they might seem to the eye. and it was as if the earth had opened and swallowed her. but very soon I was forced to abandon all hope of communicating with the imprisoned girl through her friend and jailer. Distance. that I distinctly recognized Yoletta in the rider. galloped recklessly down the slope. It was all very well. like bodily hunger. her place as instructress having been taken by Edra. were like rivers of crocus−colored fire. and the light. which he had doubtless experienced at one time of his life. With a slight bitterness I recalled some of the words the father had spoken to me that morning. and
. not to be appeased with splendid sunsets. for my heart was restless in me. I thought. for this venerable graybeard to talk about refreshing the soul with the sight of all this beauty. Presently.Chapter 15
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while the valleys. for I did venture to suggest it. but he seemed to lose sight of the important fact that there was a considerable difference in our respective ages. thinking to derive some benefit from it. and waving my hand to attract her attention. Edra was much disturbed at the suggestion. my education was not allowed to suffer.
Chapter 15
During Yoletta's seclusion. and further away on the immense horizon it all faded into the soft universal blue. was. standing motionless as a figure of stone. that the raging hunger of the heart. I started up. beyond what she might teach me. and had lost the power of pleasure. nor anywhere in sight. I caught sight of a person on horseback. fringed with scarlet. though in a tentative. At that distance the horse looked no bigger than a greyhound. not feeling sure of my ground: previous mistakes had made me cautious. roundabout form. yet so marvelously transparent was the mountain air. on a second and lower summit of the long mountain I had ascended. and sprang joyfully onto my own horse. Her manner was a sufficient warning. rainbows and rainbow lilies. autumnal haze. but when I reached the opposing summit she was no longer there. I was pleased with this arrangement.

though even this was mixed with some perplexing matters. "If you know. and I feared that any such premature declaration would be the ruin of my prospects. One afternoon. so much is she that life without her would be a burden. "I love you as much as if one mother had given us birth. for if I had confessed that separation from Yoletta caused my dejection. and went about in continual fear that others would presently notice it. though not with so great a love." said I. placing a hand on my shoulder. straight into her transparent eyes. but we do love each other." I said. for I knew of that change in me. until for very shame I turned my face aside. Why is this?" My face crimsoned at this very direct question. and draw their own conclusions. "Do you know that you are changed? All your gay spirits have left you. She is more to me than any one else in the world.Chapter 15
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I did not broach the subject a second time. however. and you can confide in me?" I looked into her face now. She continued looking at me. after looking long and earnestly into my face. But I love Yoletta with a different love−−not as one loves a sister. and it was plain to see that she had not yet guessed my meaning. "that I am grieving for Yoletta. But why do you turn your face from me?" I was perplexed. though I ask you. can you not also guess why I hesitate and hide my face from you?" "No. I shall tell her how pale and sad you have grown−−how different from what you were. I met with a great and unexpected consolation. but her sympathy gave me courage. she would know what that feeling meant. "I know the reason. and made me determined to give her my confidence. why is it? You love me also. "You are grieving for Yoletta−−I saw it from the first. and you are pale and thin and sad. "Dearest Edra. said my gentle teacher to me. Do you not know what
." she continued. Smith. taking her hand. One day.

and when we were assembled in the breakfast−room I observed Edra watching me. I added: "Do you not know of more than one kind of love?" "No. it is an offense to suggest. The cold river revived me. that it is like a different feeling. questioning smile on her lips. Edra. since it is sweet to be loved. for Yoletta would know how greatly my love exceeded that of her own kindred. however much you may love her. still gazing inquiringly into my face." she answered. and I hoped against hope that a responsive emotion would at last awaken in her breast. that the desire to look on her face made you forget how wrong it was to approach her.
. and the fever of impatience I was in. prevented from sleeping by the prospect of reunion. When the last of those leaden−footed thirty days arrived−−the day on which. I had made the attempt. and she will be glad to know it. yet feared. or even to think. for she is not allowed to converse with any one directly or through me.Chapter 15
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that means?" And then. Nevertheless. Yoletta would recover liberty before the sun set−−I rose early from the straw pallet where I had tossed all night. and it distressed her very much. I had wished. and now. with a curious. in an unguarded moment. to remove the scales from their eyes. and that you tried to go to her. remembering Yoletta's words on the hills." How strange and incomprehensible it seemed that Edra had so misinterpreted my feeling! It seemed also to me that they all. "But I know that your love for her so greatly exceeds all others. She told me that she saw you on the hills. But she will forgive you when I have told her how great your love is. I shall tell her. such a thing." "And after you have told her. from the father of the house downwards. according to my computation. were very blind indeed to set down so strong an emotion to mere brotherly affection. shall you make known her reply to me?" "No. Smith. and my gentle confessor had failed to understand me. I extracted some comfort from this conversation. I asked her the reason.

smiling. with everything on it. Then the thoughts of the approaching evening. the consuming impatience and boundless energy I felt making me wish for some unusually violent task. I selected a large tree which had been marked out for felling. and for hours I hacked at it with an energy almost superhuman. but ran as if for a wager. flying leaps over bushes and streams that had never tempted me before. I had already accomplished more than a day's work. and on this morning I did not walk. and your cheeks that were so pallid yesterday burn redder than an autumn leaf. and all the happiness it would bring. I picked up the ax and made a fresh onslaught on the fallen tree. the towering old giant. casting myself upon a bed of chips and withered leaves. such as would exhaust the body and give." she replied. began revolving like a whirligig. "Your eyes sparkle like sunshine on the water. came with a mighty crash to the earth. bowing its head and rustling its sere foliage as if in eternal farewell to the skies. and the whole world seemed to spin round. And sitting there I thought only of Yoletta. more on your account than her own. taking long. Taking my ax. How would she look after that long seclusion? Pale. and sad too perhaps. before I had felt any disposition to rest. inspired me with fresh zeal and strength. I left the house. and taking no thought of my food. but the fever in my blood and brain urged me on to the arduous task of lopping off the huge branches. compelling me to desist and take a still longer rest. I determined to go to the forest and spend the day there. she added these precious words: "Yoletta will be glad to return to us. Recovered at length from this exhausted condition. a rest to the mind. and. perhaps." Then. starting to my feet. and my exertions did not cease until once more the world. with only life enough left in me to wonder whether I had fainted or not.Chapter 15
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"You are like a person suddenly recovered from sickness. and at last. fresh breeze stung my burning cheeks like needles of ice. and rejoiced to observe that half the day−−that last miserable day−−had already flown. Scarcely was it fallen before I felt that I had labored too long and violently: the dry. but now it seemed impossible for me to settle down to any quiet. then. I lay gasping for breath. my knees trembled under me." After we had broken our fast. Arrived at the scene of action. sedentary kind of work. I sat up. and the usual small basket of provisions for my noonday meal. For many days past I had shirked woodcutting. and her
.

I cannot tell you how glad. And are you not glad to be loved?" "Oh. do you love me so much?" "I love you so much. But her face was pale. and given myself to you. Tell me. and I could not understand your words? Now. darling−−that word again! It is the one sweetness and joy of life. while pressing her again and again to my heart. and I should prefer to lie near you underground. happy drops. and bounding away over the withered leaves. my sweet darling−−at last. which looked now so much thinner than when I had last seen it. as of a hare startled at seeing me. I beheld Yoletta herself hastening towards me. when you vexed me with questions. but am I not here in your arms to show it? When I heard that you had gone to the wood I did not wait. her eyes filled with tears−−crystal.Chapter 15
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sweet. with a pensive pallor like that of the Gloire de Dijon rose. but ran here as fast as I could. Do you remember that evening on the hill. would I now see in them that new light for which I had watched and waited so long? Then. like Genevieve in the ballad. dear. that if you were to die. soulful eyes−−oh. I can understand them better. and lifting up my eyes from the ground. and in another moment she was locked in my arms." she spoke. her face shining with joy. and kissing that dear face. body and soul? How thirty days have changed you! Oh. at last. "Oh. Smith. That one moment of unspeakable happiness seemed to out−weigh a hundred times all the misery I had endured. She bent back her head. there would be no more pleasure in life for me. have I not done as you wished. "how you were grieving for me. when I love you so much more. Oh. a slight rustling sound. while I thus mused. All
. not far off. how strange you should love me so much!" "Strange. which dimmed not their brightness. only now excitement had suffused her cheeks with the tints of that same rose−−that red so unlike the bloom on other faces in vanished days. so tender and delicate and precious above all tints in nature! "I know. my pain is ended!" I murmured. that you were pale and dejected. to look me in the face. I heard. I sprang forward to meet her.

and no sign of that maidenly shame which gave to Genevieve in the ballad such an exquisite grace in her lover's eyes. and when I sleep you are in all ray dreams. 'your tears have chilled you like winter rain. and crying bitterly because I had been left so long alone. and my passion. would rend me to pieces. and the women they had worshiped. and speak words that simulated passion while no such feeling touched her heart? Such a state of things could not endure. All at once I saw you standing at my side in the moonlight. and could only whisper huskily when I strove to answer. there was not the expression I sought. mocked and baffled again and again." "Tell me one of your dreams. and rested warm and happy in your love. listening to my words." she answered. all my blissful raptures turned to a great despondence. and presently opening them again. I closed my eyes to think. how her delicious words maddened me! Even my tongue and lips suddenly became dry as ashes with the fever in me." She still continued gazing into my face. "They came to me after Edra had told me how pale and sad you had grown. compared with Yoletta. "I also had dreams of you.' you said. saw Yoletta
. with the moon shining on me. But how had mortals always fared when they aspired to mate with celestials? I tried then to remember something bearing on this important point. I released her from my arms and sat down on the fallen tree. I was cold. 'Poor Yoletta. Would it always be thus−−would she continue to embrace me. I drew your face against my bosom. For how many men had been driven by love to such an end. but alas! on that sweet." "I dreamed that I was lying awake on my bed. and when you had put your arms about me. but my mind was becoming strangely confused. darling. were like creatures of clay compared with one of the immortals. those happy tears still shining in her eyes. and miserably died for.' Then you kissed them dry. And was she not a being of a higher order than myself? It was folly to think otherwise. beautiful face. so full of changeful expression." Oh. and hurl me on to madness and self−destruction.Chapter 15
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day long I am thinking of you.

"I am not ill. or I shall go mad. and taking the small metal whistle hanging at her side. surpassing all monsters of the imagination−−all beasts. But something was coming to us−−out of that universal mist and darkness closing around us it came bounding swiftly through the wood−−a huge gray wolf! No. "What is the matter. a monster ever increasing in size. after many efforts. not a wolf−−a wolf was nothing to it! A mighty. its head clothed as with a black thunder−cloud. was fast forsaking the world. lost for ever! I struggled frantically to rise and fly to her assistance. "I'm worrying my brains trying to remember all about them. blood−red suns! And she−−my love−−with a cry on her lips. and rose. throwing her arms about my neck and pressing her cheek to mine. and what did they do to those who loved them−−can't you tell me?" "Oh. to my knees. I felt a strange imbecility of mind. added: "Your head burns like fire. but only slipped down to the ground.
. through which its eyes glared like twin. yet it seemed to anger me to be told that I was ill." "No wonder. that had ever existed in past geologic ages. only to fall again to the earth. and what did they do? Tell me. roaring lion crashing through the forest. you are ill−−you have a fever and may die!" she exclaimed. daylight. and then. "I never felt better in my life! But can't you answer me−−who were they. gazing up into my face with an alarmed expression. A dull mist and gloom seemed to be settling down on everything. laying her fresh palm on my forehead. was springing forth to meet it−−lost. I tried to get up from my seat on the trunk. and hope with it.Chapter 15
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kneeling before me. gigantic and deformed." I returned. you seem ill?" she said. What were their names. Smith." I protested feebly. a lion with teeth like elephants' tusks. insensible. vast and of horrible aspect. blew a shrill note that seemed to pierce my brain like a steel weapon." She started up.

that at last. in answer to the questions I put with some heart−quakings to her. "No. How fortunate that my crazy brain had thus continued vexing itself with this idle question! She also told me that Yoletta had watched day and night at my side. you must suffer the punishment. "Have you nothing more to ask?" she said at length. Smith. from which I woke refreshed and saved. sitting bolt upright in my bed. and Edra had taken her place by my side. without waking her. and that the being I loved best had been permanently withdrawn from my sight. on awakening. and presently I began to fear that in the ravings of delirium I had spoken things which had plucked the scales from the eyes of my kind friends in a very rough way indeed. and as soon as you are well enough to leave your room and bear it. Edra? I never heard such outrageous nonsense in my life!"
. had dropped her head on the pillow and fallen asleep. but in a spacious apartment new to me. "What do you mean.Chapter 16
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The violent fever into which I had fallen did not abate until the third day. when the fever left me. I did not. continually asking questions about Venus. with her hand on mine. Then. and many other persons whose names had never before been heard in the house. beside which Edra was seated. nothing more. on a comfortable bed. Juno. with an accent of surprise. Diana. they had carried her away to her own room. she too. Almost my first feeling was one of disappointment at not seeing Yoletta there. informed me that I had talked a great deal in my fever. but unintelligibly. It was a blessed relief when Edra." "What! Punished for being ill!" I exclaimed. We know now that your illness is the result of your own imprudence. What you have told me has made me very happy−−what more can I wish to know?" "But there is more to tell you. find myself in my own familiar cell. when I fell into a profound slumber. and I had fallen into that cooling slumber.

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She was disturbed at this outburst, but quietly and gravely repeated that I must certainly be punished for my illness. Remembering what their punishments were, I had the prospect of a second long separation from Yoletta, and the thought of such excessive severity, or rather of such cruel injustice, made me wild. "By Heaven, I shall not submit to it!" I exclaimed. "Punished for being ill−−who ever heard of such a thing! I suppose that by−and−by it will be discovered that the bridge of my nose is not quite straight, or that I can't see round the corner, and that also will be set down as a crime, to be expiated in solitary confinement, on a bread−and−water diet! No, you shall not punish me; rather than give in to such tyranny I'll walk off and leave the house for ever!" She regarded me with an expression almost approaching to horror on her gentle face, and for some moments made no reply. Then I remembered that if I carried out that insane threat I should indeed lose Yoletta, and the very thought of such a loss was more than I could endure; and for a moment I almost hated the love which made me so helpless and miserable−−so powerless to oppose their stupid and barbarous practices. It would have been sweet then to have felt free−−free to fling them a curse, and go away, shaking the dust of their house from my shoes, supposing that any dust had adhered to them. Then Edra began to speak again, and gravely and sorrowfully, but without a touch of austerity in her tone or manner, censured me for making use of such irrational language, and for allowing bitter, resentful thoughts to enter my heart. But the despondence and sullen rage into which I had been thrown made me proof even against the medicine of an admonition imparted so gently, and, turning my face away, I stubbornly refused to make any reply. For a while she was silent, but I misjudged her when I imagined that she would now leave me, offended, to my own reflections. "Do you not know that you are giving me pain?" she said at last, drawing a little closer to me. "A little while ago you told me that you loved me: has that feeling faded so soon, or do you take any pleasure in wounding those you love?"

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Her words, and, more than her words, her tender, pleading tone, pierced me with compunction, and I could not resist. "Edra, my sweet sister, do not imagine such a thing!" I said. "I would rather endure many punishments than give you pain. My love for you cannot fade while I have life and understanding. It is in me like greenness in the leaf−−that beautiful color which can only be changed by sere decay." She smiled forgiveness, and with a humid brightness in her eyes, which somehow made me think of that joy of the angels over one sinner that repenteth, bent down and touched her lips to mine. "How can you love any one more than that, Smith?" she said. "Yet you say that your love for Yoletta exceeds all others." "Yes, dear, exceeds all others, as the light of the sun exceeds that of the moon and the stars. Can you not understand that−−has no man ever loved you with a love like that, my sister?" She shook her head and sighed. Did she not understand my meaning now−−had not my words brought back some sweet and sorrowful memory? With her hands folded idly on her lap, and her face half averted, she sat gazing at nothing. It seemed impossible that this woman, so tender and so beautiful, should never have experienced in herself or witnessed in another, the feeling I had questioned her about. But she made no further reply to my words; and as I lay there watching her, the drowsy spirit the fever had left in me overcame my brain, and I slept once more. For several days, which brought me so little strength that I was not permitted to leave the sick−room, I heard nothing further about my punishment, for I purposely refrained from asking any questions, and no person appeared inclined to bring forward so disagreeable a subject. At length I was pronounced well enough to go about the house, although still very feeble, and I was conducted, not to the judgment−room, where I had expected to be taken, but to the Mother's Room; and there I found the father of the house, seated with Chastel, and with them seven or eight of the others. They all welcomed me, and seemed glad to see me out again; but I could not help remarking a certain subdued, almost solemn air about them,

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which seemed to remind me that I was regarded as an offender already found guilty, who had now been brought up to receive judgment. "My son," said the father, addressing me in a calm, judicial tone which at once put my last remaining hopes to flight, "it is a consolation to us to know that your offense is of such a nature that it cannot diminish our esteem for you, or loosen the bonds of affection which unite you to us. You are still feeble, and perhaps a little confused in mind concerning the events of the last few days: I do not therefore press you to give an account of them, but shall simply state your offense, and if I am mistaken in any particular you shall correct me. The great love you have for Yoletta," he continued−−and at this I started and blushed painfully, but the succeeding words served to show that I had only too little cause for alarm−−"the great love you have for Yoletta caused you much suffering during her thirty days' seclusion from us, so that you lost all enjoyment of life, and eating little, and being in continual dejection, your strength was much diminished. On the last day you were so much excited at the prospect of reunion with her, that you went to your task in the woods almost fasting, and probably after spending a restless night. Tell me if this is not so?" "I did not sleep that night," I replied, somewhat huskily. "Unrefreshed by sleep and with lessened strength," he continued, "you went to the woods, and in order to allay that excitement in your mind, you labored with such energy that by noon you had accomplished a task which, in another and calmer condition of mind and body, would have occupied you more than one day. In thus acting you had already been guilty of a serious offense against yourself; but even then you might have escaped the consequences if, after finishing your work, you had rested and refreshed yourself with food and drink. This, however, you neglected to do; for when you had fallen insensible to the earth, and Yoletta had called the dog and sent it to the house to summon assistance, the food you had taken with you was found untasted in the basket. Your life was thus placed in great peril; and although it is good to lay life down when it has become a burden to ourselves and others, being darkened by that failure of power from which there is no recovery, wantonly or carelessly to endanger it in the flower of

it was my intention to put you away from us for the space of thirteen days. but when Yoletta. and therefore.Chapter 16
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its strength and beauty is a great folly and a great offense. Consider how deep our grief would have been. which had caused my illness. but it is a light offense." he said. with poor success. but exceeding love. that I was powerless to enlighten them
. or even against another person. coming last. Then the others surrounded me to express their congratulations. especially the grief of Yoletta. that I was made to feel very submissive." "You speak with the wisdom of a chastened spirit. my son. which clouded your judgment. even approving of the emotion. I took it in mine and raised it to my lips. and. the men pressing my hands. now almost a conviction." Here he paused. put her white arms about my neck and pressed her lips to mine. and tried. rising and placing his hand on my head. for they all freely kissed me. my son. and the thought. I have to tell you that you will not be separated from us. and you have tempered justice with more mercy than I deserve. And now. taking all these things into account. to speak my thanks for this rare and beautiful act of mercy. as it came so near ending! It is therefore just and righteous that an offense of such a nature should be recompensed. but not so the women. "that I should suffer for my fault. "and your words gladden me all the more for knowing that you were filled with surprise and resentment when told that your offense was one deserving punishment. if this culpable disregard of your own safety and well−being had ended fatally. as if expecting me to make some reply. for this was very unexpected: she was gazing at my face with the light of a strange tenderness in her eyes. He had reproved me so gently. kneeling before her. not like one committed against the house. "It is only just. for the mother of the house has willed that your offense shall be pardoned. She extended her hand. the ecstasy I felt was so greatly overbalanced by the pain of my position." I replied. and even grateful to him. since it was no unworthy motive. although still entirely in the dark as to its meaning. and we also remember the occasion of it." I looked in surprise at Chastel. never seen there before.

in that wilderness of a strange literature. and even to discover that it had certain advantages. after changing my dress. My friends advised me to do no work. physical or mental. nor had I ever expressed a wish to see it. Nevertheless. seem to have a kind of collective existence. for all those tens of thousands of volumes. staring. and I failed to recover strength. and to look down on me. leaving me to wander at will. containing so much important but unappreciated matter. And that for two reasons: one was. as an intruder on sacred ground−−a barbarian. but it distresses me. although sharp. I know. mechanical task which put no strain on me. whose proper place is in the woods. the chief of which was that the tumult of my mind was over for a season. but in a little time I began to get reconciled to such a state. for I could read now. many days went by. and did not even know in what part of the house it was situated.Chapter 17
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with regard to the nature of the love I felt for her. Even this playing at work fatigued me. and at once she had abandoned the lessons I had loved so much. that I almost shrank from her dear embrace. but without a guide. that I had never loved libraries.
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My attack of illness. the other and weightier reason was. I had never been to the library. Then. They oppress me with a painful sense of my mental inferiority. and I prefer not to put myself in
. had passed off so quickly that I confidently looked to complete restoration to my former vigorous state of health in a very short time. a result which my sweet schoolmistress had been the first to see. as I had little appetite−−I made it a rule to go every morning to the workhouse. This surprised and distressed me at first. like a man with great. and occupy myself for two or three hours with some light. I would repair to the music−room to resume my search after hidden knowledge in any books that happened to be there. owlish eyes. but not wishing to eat the bread of idleness−−although the bread was little now. but remained pretty much in that condition of body in which I had quitted the sick−room. that I had already half−resolved−−my resolutions were usually of that complexion−−never to run the risk of appearing desirous of knowing too much. so that I craved for nothing very eagerly. It is a mere fancy.

to remain as long as I wished. while I sat or reclined. I experienced a wonderful restfulness both of body and mind. the exquisitely harmonious
. dreamy existence: on the contrary. and in the Mother's Room. I would proceed to the Mother's Room. It was so pleasant that I soon dropped into the custom of remaining until supper−time compelled me to leave it. and the rougher the exercise the better I liked it. The books I read. in the lottery of life. I had drawn the healthy stomach−−liver. in this novel condition of languor. Chastel invariably treating me now with a loving tenderness of manner which seemed strange when I recalled the extremely unfavorable impression I had made at our first interview. especially the odd volumes I looked at belonging to that long series on the Houses of the World. where I was now permitted to enter freely every afternoon. for so far my conversations and close intimacy with the people of the house had not dissipated the cloud of mystery in which their customs were hid. it seemed expedient that I should give some hours each day to reading. and works on arts. for these abounded in marvelous and entertaining matter. After three or four hours spent in these fruitless researches. unlimited muscular exercise being as necessary to my well−being as fresh air and good food. while many dreams of pleasures to come drifted in a vague. I had long intervals of perfect inactivity and silence. There were also histories of the house." which made me blush painfully. however. but they were not what I wanted. vaporous manner through my brain. were all highly interesting. saying that a man ought to think himself well off if. my fault had lain in the opposite direction. But now.Chapter 17
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the way of it. or dipped into. summer−like atmosphere. The very character of the room−−its delicate richness. and small brains. and when there. breathing and steeped in that fragrant. he draws the prize of a healthy stomach without a mind. and various other subjects. or to love a quiet. and by customs I here refer to those relating to courtship and matrimony only. not thinking but in a reverie. and heart to match−−and had never felt dissatisfied with my prize. resting as if some weariness of labor still clung to me. Once in a book I met with a scornful passage about people with "bodily constitutions like those of horses. Now. that it is better than a fine intellect with a crazy stomach. agriculture. lungs. for that was to me the main thing. but in the very next passage the writer makes amends. It was never my nature to be indolent.

first and last. a great deal about sweetness and light and Philistines. Far back in the old days I had heard. as it were. and was satisfied to have the controversy ended in that way. On the glass. recalls the unheeded words and
. was a never−failing delight. To look out. so far as it concerned me personally. from the imitation shade of such an arbor. rested on graceful columns of polished crystal. the soaring peaks showing a pearly luster which seemed to remove them to an infinite distance. who. dim sculpture gallery was like passing out into the open air. Such was its effect on me.Chapter 17
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disposition of colors and objects. or pavilion. for I was now able. I thereafter proclaimed myself a Philistine. combined with that of the mother's new tender graciousness. their crystal purity of heart and the religion they professed. and the central arched or domed portion of the roof. however. hill and mountain scenery was depicted. eight in number. the summits in some of them appearing beyond wide. untempered by a cloud. Now. and not quite knowing what this grand question was all about. The doors were of amber−colored glass set in agate frames. scarcely hearing and straightway forgetting. that I could have wished to remain a permanent invalid in her room. The first impression produced was one of brightness: coming to it by way of the long. to appreciate the beautiful character of my friends. and the illusions of nature produced on the mind−−seemed to lend itself to this unaccustomed mood. but the windows. barren plains. over those far−off. formed the principal attraction. which made me less of an alien in the house. I was like one to whom some important thing has been told. whitened with the noonday splendor and heat of midsummer. and this effect was partly due to the white and crystal surfaces and the brilliancy of the colors where any color appeared. I imagined. and to confirm me in it. and hearing from some of my friends that I was without the qualities they valued most. resulting I knew not whether from compassion or affection. which was of a light turquoise blue. but. It was spacious and lofty. sun−lit expanses where the light appeared to dance and quiver as one gazed. Another cause of the mild kind of happiness I now experienced was the consciousness of a change in my own mental disposition. lying awake at night in the silence of his chamber. goes about his affairs.

and with such a change going on within me−−I sometimes thought that a little more and I would touch that serene. had taught me how unlovely a creature I had been. and. hurrying to and fro. My passion for Yoletta now burned with a gentle flame. I had not absorbed a little sweetness and light into my system. with many people about me. shining floors. I saw myself shivering in sordid rags and gaunt with long−lasting famine. sitting with me at her mother's feet. and for all sensations. with recovered strength it would wake again. feelings. that she was altogether and eternally mine. far from all human companionship. Not forever would the demon of passion slumber and dream in my breast. shuddering at the abhorred sight of blood on their sacred. I knew that this could not continue. wringing their hands and weeping aloud with grief. and when she caressed my hand. or. enduring bliss which seemed to be the normal condition of my fellow−inmates. My sojourn with this people−−angelic women and mild−eyed men with downy. lying with upturned. would raise once more that black tempest of that past to overwhelm me. ghastly face. and gazed full at me with those dear eyes that had no shadow of regret or anxiety in them. so mild in manner yet in their arts "laying broad bases for eternity"−−above all the invalid hours spent daily in the Mother's Room. but only unfathomable love. sometimes so near that her dark.Chapter 17
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perceives their full significance. but only imparted an agreeable sense of warmth to the system. and her fragrant breath came on my face. It would have been strange indeed if. nothing left to me but a
. in such an atmosphere. a fugitive in some wintry. the very image of Yoletta scorched by madness to formless ashes in my brain. then suddenly the complexion of my dream would change. shining hair brushed against my cheek. desolate land. which did not consume. unrazored lips. darkening like a fair landscape when a cloud obscures the sun. thoughts. memories. ever increasing in power and ever baffled of its desire. In this sweet refuge−−this slumberous valley where I had been cast up by that swift black current that had borne me to an immeasurable distance on its bosom. worse still. When she was there. Other darker visions followed: I would see myself as in a magic glass. I could imagine that our union was already complete. Sometimes I could not prevent my thoughts from flying away from the present.

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distorted likeness of the visible world, and a terrible unrest urging me, as with a whip of scorpions, ever on and on, to ford yet other black, icy torrents, and tear myself bleeding through yet other thorny thickets, and climb the ramparts of yet other gigantic, barren hills. But these moments of terrible depression, new to my life, were infrequent, and seldom lasted long. Chastel was my good angel; a word, a touch from her hand, and the ugly spirits would vanish. She appeared to possess a mysterious faculty−−perhaps only the keen insight and sympathy of a highly spiritualized nature−−which informed her of much that was passing in my heart: if a shadow came there when she had no wish or strength to converse, she would make me draw close to her seat, and rest her hand on mine, and the shadow would pass from me. I could not help reflecting often and wonderingly at this great change in her manner towards me. Her eyes dwelt lovingly on me, and her keenest suffering, and the unfortunate blundering expressions I frequently let fall, seemed equally powerless to wring one harsh or impatient word from her. I was not now only one among her children, privileged to come and sit at her feet, to have with them a share in her impartial affection; and remembering that I was a stranger in the house, and compared but poorly with the others, the undisguised preference she showed for me, and the wish to have me almost constantly with her, seemed a great mystery. One afternoon, as I sat alone with her, she made the remark that my reading lessons had ceased. "Oh yes, I can read perfectly well now," I answered. "May I read to you from this book?" Saying which, I put my hand towards a volume lying on the couch at her side. It differed from the other books I had seen, in its smaller size and blue binding. "No, not in this book," she said, with a shade of annoyance in her voice, putting out her hand to prevent my taking it.

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"Have I made another mistake?" I asked, withdrawing my hand. "I am very ignorant." "Yes, poor boy, you are very ignorant," she returned, placing her hand on my forehead. "You must know that this is a mother's book, and only a mother may read in it." "I am afraid," I said, with a sigh, "that it will be a long time before I cease to offend you with such mistakes." "There is no occasion to say that, for you have not offended me, only you make me feel sorry. Every day when you are with me I try to teach you something, to smooth the path for you; but you must remember, my son, that others cannot feel towards you as I do, and it may come to pass that they will sometimes be offended with you, because their love is less than mine." "But why do you care so much for me?" I asked, emboldened by her words. "Once I thought that you only of all in the house would never love me: what has changed your feelings towards me, for I know that they have changed?" She looked at me, smiling a little sadly, but did not reply. "I think I should be happier for knowing," I resumed, caressing her hand. "Will you not tell me?" There was a strange trouble on her face as her eyes glanced away and then returned to mine again, while her lips quivered, as if with unspoken words. Then she answered: "No, I cannot tell you now. It would make you happy, perhaps, but the proper time has not yet arrived. You must be patient, and learn, for you have much to learn. It is my desire that you should know all those things concerning the family of which you are ignorant, and when I say all, I mean not only those suitable to one in your present condition, as a son of the house, but also those higher matters which belong to the heads of the house−−to the father and mother." Then, casting away all caution, I answered: "It is precisely a knowledge of those greater matters concerning the family which I have been hungering

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after ever since I came into the house." "I know it," she returned. "This hunger you speak of was partly the cause of your fever, and it is in you, keeping you feverish and feeble still; but for this, instead of being a prisoner here, you would now be abroad, feeling the sun and wind on your face." "And if you know that," I pleaded, "why do you not now impart the knowledge that can make me whole? For surely, all those lesser matters−−those things suitable for one in my condition to know−−can be learned afterwards, in due time. For they are not of pressing importance, but the other is to me a matter of life and death, if you only knew it." "I know everything," she returned quickly. But a cloud had come over her face at my concluding words, and a startled look into her eyes. "Life and death! do you know what you are saying?" she exclaimed, fixing her eyes on me with such intense earnestness in them that mine fell abashed before their gaze. Then, after a while, she drew my head down against her knees, and spoke with a strange tenderness. "Do you then find it so hard to exercise a little patience, my son, that you do not acquiesce in what I say to you, and fear to trust your future in my hands? My time is short for all that I have to do, yet I also must be patient and wait, although for me it is hardest. For now your coming, which I did not regard at first, seeing in you only a pilgrim like others−−one who through accidents of travel had been cast away and left homeless in the world, until we found and gave you shelter−−now, it has brought something new into my life: and if this fresh hope, which is only an old, perished hope born again, ever finds fulfillment, then death will lose much of its bitterness. But there are difficulties in the way which only time, and the energy of a soul that centers all its faculties in one desire, one enterprise, can overcome. And the chief difficulty I find is in yourself−−in that strange, untoward disposition so often revealed in your conversation, which you have shown even now; for to be thus questioned and pressed, and to have my judgment doubted, would have greatly offended me in another. Remember this, and do not abuse the privilege you enjoy: remember that you must greatly change before I can share with you the secrets of my heart that concern you. And bear in mind,

springing from the first. I know. all our love for each other. so that even the things that are painful give to life a new and chastened glory." To this speech. But the temper of your mind must be changed to be worthy of the happiness I have designed for you." "And yet. green. I know your limitations. But in you this second faculty is wanting. which had a depressing effect on me. For grief is like a dark. which is like a pencil of glass receiving the white sunbeam into itself. and in all artistic work we commune not with blind. until from lip and hand it breaks in the rain of melody. but with the unseen spirit which is in nature. I have spoken only to encourage you.Chapter 17
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my son. and is expressed in art. that nature has denied to you that melodious and flexible voice in which it is our custom every day to render homage to the Father. my son. inspiring our hearts. and love nature like one that loves his fellow−man. Patience must chasten that
. the joy we have in life. not your fault. so with all other arts. else you would not willingly forego so great a pleasure as its exercise affords. oppressive cloud. returning love for love. nor do your errors greatly trouble me. to express all the sacred feelings of our hearts. that you are deprived of this supreme solace and happiness. and even our griefs and sorrows. believing as I do that in time you will be able to dismiss them from your mind. for instance. when made known and returned. and we are lightened. is ours through that faculty by means of which the beauty and harmony of the visible world become transmuted in the soul. There is a twofold pleasure in contemplating our Father's works: in the first and lower kind you share with us. For the happiness of love with sympathy. forgive me for saying it!−−your words almost make me despond. and wish more ardently to lessen the great distance between us. and violet−colored light: thus nature transmutes itself in our minds. but the second and more noble. but now−−sweet mother. And as with music. and changing it to red. I answered sadly: "Every day I feel my deficiencies more keenly. and expect nothing beyond your powers. Therefore it is your misfortune. irrational nature. that I am not rebuking you for a want of knowledge. and rewarding our labor with enduring bliss. for I know that for many deficiencies you are not blameworthy. is increased an hundredfold. but has no words to express so sweet a feeling.

alternating with indifference or despondence. resting on the purple pillow. I will say again that only by giving you enduring happiness and the desire of your heart can my one hope be fulfilled. and. "for should you be taken away. and the abundant dark. and when I am taken forth. her worn face had dropped on the pillow." And in a little while she slept. Consider how much I say to you in these words. and the sunshine falls once more on my face. The light was on her face. and for that unsteady flame of hope. lusterless hair that framed it. there must be unremitting effort. "I am tired−−tired. looked dead too. which burns so brightly in the morning and in the evening sings so low. and rational hope. unwavering. my son. and her eyes were closed. and of the color of wrought iron. and the lips that had no red color of life in them also closed and motionless. "Do not say that you will be forgotten!" I exclaimed passionately. "Stay with me a little longer." she murmured. But for me there shall come no change. for feverish diligence. it was like a face carved in ivory of one who had suffered like Isarte in the house and perished long generations ago." She caressed my hand. And do not think hardly of me. but leave me if I sleep. for wishing to keep you a little longer in this prison with me: for in a little while your weakness will pass away like a morning cloud.
. and with the soulful eyes closed. but did not speak. it saddens me to think that so much was necessary. and when I looked up. and shall not see it. as I worship you now when you are alive. I shall not feel it. lest you forget anything. I shall still love and worship your memory. and I shall lie forgotten when you are in the midst of your happy years.Chapter 17
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reckless spirit in you. It would be strange indeed if after this you were cast down. since I must remain day and night here with the shadow of death." Her words smote on my heart with a keen pain of compassion. there must be a bright.

then retired for three or four miserable. Nevertheless. if she were to die? was my first idea. What would become of me.Chapter 18
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Chapter 18
Chastel's words sank deep in my heart−−deeper than words had ever sunk before into that somewhat unpromising soil. now that she was absent! Those mountain landscapes. if there had been any change. The day dragged slowly to its close. haggard face and troubled eyes. Alas! the very next day was destined to bring me a sore trouble. and although she had purposely left me in the dark with regard to many important matters. to be as near as possible to the sufferer on whose recovery so much now depended. too distressed in mind to work or read. nor sign of improvement to relieve our anxiety. anxious hours. and no rest came to the sufferer. all day in the room. Among his silent people the father sat with gray. yet there seemed to be a wintry chill and death−like atmosphere which struck to the heart. The summons so terrified me that for some moments I sat trembling and unable to articulate a word. her sweet face looking paler than when I had first seen it after her long punishment. Chastel's condition was still unchanged. it was for the worse. But at the same time I had the grace to feel ashamed of that selfish thought. or. and. I now resolved to win her esteem. I could not shake off the gloom it had produced in me. I heard with profound concern that Chastel's malady had suddenly become aggravated. for she had not slept. only to return once more when it was scarcely light. that she had passed the night in the greatest suffering. and bind her yet more closely to me by correcting those faults in my character she had pointed out with so much tenderness. and of all those bright dreams of happiness. drooping eyelids her skin was stained with that mournful purple which tells of a long vigil and a heart oppressed with anxiety. but towards evening Yoletta came to take me to her mother. then Yoletta entered. On entering the breakfast−room I became aware that a shadow had fallen on the house. Again I remained. and made me shiver with cold. Until past midnight I remained at my post. glowing with the white radiance of mimic sunshine. for I could not but
. I repaired to the Mother's Room. a prey to desponding thoughts. How lonely and desolate it seemed there. while under her heavy. still made perpetual summer.

In the dim light her face looked white as the pillow on which it rested. I said in a whisper: "Dearest mother. This seemed to me a not very promising remedy." she replied. where Chastel was lying on a low bed placed on a slightly raised platform in the center of the floor. and when I had bent my cheek close to her face. explained that her mother could not sleep for torturing pains in her head. at the same time. and to me they seemed to express mental anguish rather than physical suffering. becoming uneasy at her scrutiny. Chastel did not speak. Chastel had desired them to call me to her to try my hand." I rejoiced at her words. her forehead contracted with sharp pain. retiring to the foot of the bed. and for the first time entered that sacred chamber. do you wish to say anything to me?" "Yes. after whispering to me to let it rest very gently there. my son. come nearer. and wished me to place my hand on her forehead.
. piteous moanings. where two of the women were seated. I knelt beside the bed. for it seemed as though she knew how much my heart had been troubled by that ignoble fear. may I say something?" I asked. but when I entered he rose and made way for me. but she told me that on former occasions they had often succeeded in procuring her ease by placing a hand on her forehead. she also withdrew a few paces. to try whether that would cause any relief. and at last. I shall not die. holding her hand in his. "Dear mother. and. I cannot die until that of which I have spoken to you has been accomplished. wishing to tell her of my resolutions. however. Yoletta. she continued: "Do not fear. but her wide−open eyes were fixed on my face from the moment I entered the room. I rose. divining the cause of my agitation. but for some minutes continued her low. while low moans came at short intervals from her twitching lips. only her eyes remained fixed on my face. and Yoletta raised and tenderly placed my right hand on the mother's forehead. they gave me pain. At the head of the bed sat the father. yet.Chapter 18
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think that Chastel's end was approaching. and that having failed now.

sorrowful face brightened like a drooping flower after rain. and became less and less frequent. and sleep a little now?"
. and her sweet. "Dearest Yoletta." "Will you sit by me here. Gradually they sank lower. and fear nothing. "I shall not die. that the touch of your hand would cause sleep." she returned. she knew." she said. looking up with her eyes still shining with large drops. "And you." and withdrawing my hand. pressing her to my breast. I repeated those four." but nothing more. "Ah." I said. Then. how long is it since you closed those sweet eyelids that seem so heavy?" "Not since I slept three nights ago. "She is sleeping. And at length Yoletta. smiling up at me. then. After this brief colloquy she closed her eyes. whispered. Smith. "Be patient and hopeful always. led me away. while the lines of pain faded out of her white. When we were again in the Mother's Room she threw her arms about my neck and burst into a tempest of tears. but for some time the low moans of pain continued." "Oh. "she will not die. resting your head on me. stealing softly to my side. for it will be many days before I can leave this room to speak with you again." So softly had she whispered. that sleep would save her. they were however. even though we should be long divided. I know what you wish to say. a great relief to her. how do you know?" she returned quickly. death−like face. my darling. be comforted. of Chastel's whispered words to me.Chapter 18
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"Not now. that the others who stood so near were not aware that she had spoken at all.

And pretty soon I was startled to see the father himself coming from Chastel's chamber to us. and dropped like a tired child to sleep. "My son. But if you will sit here. when she had coiled herself up on the cushions. with her arms still round my neck. however. resting on you. the effect your first appearance produced on us. Smith. touching the girl's hair with his hand." I had feared something quite different. not without a smile. These doubts. How perfect my happiness would have been then. smiling. To this spirit of love in you−−this summer of the heart which causes it to blossom with beautiful thoughts and deeds−−I attribute your success just now. and then. "Not on the mother's couch.Chapter 18
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"Not there!" she cried quickly. I was not over−pleased at the prospect of a conversation just then. Your attempts at singing. when the contact of
. she breathed a long happy sigh. "But you need not fear. nevertheless. and gave me some concern when I thought about the future−−that is. for on several occasions you have shown us that you possess abundantly that richest of all gifts and safest guide to happiness−−the capacity for deep affection. and tenderly kissing her dark. placing a hand on my shoulder. for it seemed to me that you had but slender foundations whereon to build a happy life. and her head resting on my bosom. also impressed me unfavorably. Catching sight of me he paused. with Yoletta in my arms. no longer trouble me. if he had only known it. then advanced. it will be pleasant if I can sleep for a little while." I placed myself on the low seat she led me to. and ignorance of art generally. shining hair." he said cheerfully. clasping her weary little ministering hands in mine. but for the fear that some person might come there to notice and disturb me. and deliberately sat down by my side. "I sometimes recall." he continued. "This one is sleeping also. and felt considerably relieved by his words. when we were startled at your somewhat grotesque pilgrim costume. and should have preferred being left alone with my precious burden. I think we shall be able to talk very well without waking her. your future.

"Great as my love and devotion is. with the body that burns with thought. else he will fail to elicit the tones or to give the expression desired. That you have succeeded in producing so blessed a result. that where such a spirit is absent the desired effect cannot be produced. that of others who yet failed on this occasion to give relief. but I had no desire to argue against so flattering a delusion. and only wished that I could share it with him. that the person wishing to perform on them must not only be inspired with the melodious passion. and leaving out of sight the unfathomable mysteries of a being compounded of flesh and spirit. when we consider how wonderful an instrument a human being is. than many melodies from clear voices and trained hands. and I also choose to believe that only a powerful spirit of love in the heart can rightly direct this subtle energy. especially those used chiefly in our harvest music. some of such finely−tempered materials. the flesh itself elevated into harmony with the exalted spirit." In my secret heart I believed that he was taking much too lofty a view of the matter. yes. This is a rough and a poor simile." I replied. but the entire system−−body and soul−−must be in the proper mood. if it were one. we know not what. and of so delicate a construction." "I do not know." "Yes. has served to deepen and widen in our hearts the love we already felt for you.Chapter 18
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your hand produced the long−desired. interposes to defeat our best efforts. this sweet interval of relief from cruel pain the mother now experiences.
. only that is looking merely at the surface of the matter. There are among our best instruments peculiar to this house. I know that this is a mysterious thing. complex chords may be injured and untuned by suffering. but something. after we had failed. I cannot suppose it to equal. much less to surpass. and the spirit that quivers and cries with pain. and when we think how its innumerable. refreshing slumber so necessary to the mother at this stage of her malady. and it is commonly said that in such cases relief is caused by an emanation from the brain through the fingers. Doubtless this is so. for how much more precious is this melody of repose. The will may be ours.

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"She is sleeping still. therefore to ask him to give us the thing we desire is to make him like ourselves. and an offense to the Father: for we pray to each other. He seemed surprised at my words." he said presently. But he who freely gave us life and reason and all good gifts. or put off speaking of it to another time. we attribute weakness and irresolution to him. after a while. "Do you not then know that it is unlawful to entertain such a thought as you have expressed?" he said. "In moments of supreme pain or bitterness or peril we sometimes so far forget ourselves as to cry out to Heaven to save us or to give us ease. and are moved by such prayers." "I pray Heaven that she may wake refreshed and free from pain. "perhaps without pain. I should not be fulfilling the part of a loving father towards you. and if I were to pass it over in silence." I was about to reply that I had always considered prayer to be an essential part of religion. at a moment like the present. or worse." Surprised at this speech.
. and her sleep will now probably last for some hours. I begged him to tell me what I had said that was wrong. to have to point out a great error to you. and often err through haste and forgetfulness and imperfect knowledge. Luckily I remembered in time that he probably knew more about matters "all over the world" than I did. but to make any such petition when we are in the full possession of our faculties is unworthy of a reasonable being. "Have you any doubts on the subject?" he asked. and so held my tongue. but it is an error hurtful to yourself and painful to those who see it." I remarked. "it grieves me. like Yoletta here. needs not that we should remind him of anything. and looked searchingly into my face." he said. and charge him with an oversight. "My son. since the petitioner thinks my importunity to incline the balance in his favor. remembering that we are fallible. and not of my form of religion only. but of all religions all over the world.

May we not. How. yet fail to perceive that you answer it. the foundation of all religion." I replied. then. therefore to ask him to suspend the operations of nature for the benefit of any individual sufferer. yet not liable to accident. he may give ease to the racked body. however poignant and unmerited the sufferings may be. without hurt to our souls. seeing how greatly happiness overbalances misery in the world. and by means of his sovereign power over nature. How. and a fledgling in the nest to its parent bird. and our knowledge of nature shows us plainly enough that he also loves all the creatures inferior to man. and not subject to misery and pain. and for the guidance and protection of the lower kinds he has given instinct: and though they do not
. then.Chapter 18
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"I must confess that I still have some doubts. That any one should question so evident and universally accepted a truth. when you say that although he does not come in a visible form to teach us this thing and that thing. he would surely have done this for all of us. then. do we know this thing? For a child cries to its mother. and peace and joy to the desolate mind?" "You ask me. is to shut our eyes to the only light he has given us. that in his compassion. To us he has given reason for a guide. that the cry of one of his children in affliction may reach him. But reason and nature show us that such an end did not consist with his plan. do we know this thing? and you answer the question yourself. All our highest and sweetest feelings unite with reason to tell us with one voice that he loves us. believe. If it had consisted with his plan to make these delicate mortal bodies capable of every agreeable sensation in the highest degree. and knows our griefs as no fellow−mortal can know them. seems very surprising to me. and to this you might have added a thousand or ten thousand other things which we know. and he is infinitely more to us than parent to child−−infinitely stronger to help. If the reason he gave us to start with makes it unnecessary that he should come to tell us in an audible voice that he desires our happiness. for it would be impossible not to believe it. But he does not come to us in visible form to tell us in an audible voice that to cry out to him in sore pain and distress is unlawful. it must also surely suffice to tell us which are lawful and which unlawful of all the thoughts continually rising in our hearts. yet we know that he desires our happiness. "I believe that our Creator and Father desires the happiness of all his creatures and takes no pleasure in seeing us miserable.

hearing which. "Do you not remember going to sleep on my breast?"
. Fortunately. and articulate speech." His conclusions were perhaps more logical than mine. and advising me to reflect well on his words concerning prayer. starting suddenly from repose. he proposed.Chapter 18
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know him. I was not yet prepared to abandon this last cherished shred of old beliefs. however. and avert pain and disaster. afforded me in the end a still greater bliss. and place the girl without waking her on a couch. the father rose to seek a little needful rest in an adjoining room. while the dumb. although perhaps not cherished for its intrinsic worth. nevertheless. Before going. although I could not argue the matter any more with him. to my great delight. how dark it is−−where am I?" she exclaimed. the father warmly pressing my hand. by making use of our reason. it was not necessary to continue the discussion any longer. "With me. higher knowledge. It was growing dark now. Her waking. and finally. if we. which gave me a pang at first. the passage bird blown from its course to perish miserably far out at sea. to relieve me of my burden. and how welcome that obscurity seemed. sweetest. while with no one nigh to see or hear I kissed her soft tresses a hundred times. they left her still in my arms. it would make us doubt his impartial love for all his creatures. "Oh. and murmured a hundred endearing words in her sleeping ears. with mistaken kindness." I said. for at this juncture one of the watchers from the sick−room came to report that the mother was still sleeping peacefully. were able to call down benefits on ourselves. but rather because it had been given to me by a sweet woman whose memory was sacred to my heart−−my mother before Chastel. But I would not consent to have her disturbed. irrational brutes suffered in silence−−the languishing deer that leaves the herd with a festering thorn in its foot.

and put a better one in its place."
. from which you derived so little benefit. for a thousand offenses could not alienate my heart. Yoletta. never leave the house. and save myself the trouble of talking so much. which is more eloquent than speech. and if you say 'Farewell' a hundred times to me. and in my rapture almost forgetting that this angelic affection she lavished on me would not long satisfy my heart. but oh. for my heart was too full for speech." "Oh. But now I am convinced that I was mistaken. as I do now." "Say one of the hundred things. for you shall never. so I shall kiss you at once. when I recalled what I once said to you−−on the hill. before this evening I did not think that I could love you more. darling?" I murmured.Chapter 18
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"Yes. Your pilgrimage. why did you not wake me sooner? My mother−−my mother−−" "She is still quietly sleeping. do you remember?−−it seemed to me that I already loved you a little too much." "Mine for ever. holding her against my breast. until my word conquers yours. I wish you also had continued sleeping! It was such a delight to have you in my arms. and now I have a hundred things to say. which is all yours forever. is over now." "My love!" she said. I shall clasp you round with my arms. And if you ever attempt to go forth again to find out new wonders in the world. for ever. dearest. and keep you prisoner against your will. Ah. "How sweet it was to fall asleep in your arms! When we came in here I could scarcely say a word. "Yes. laying her soft cheek against mine. Smith. without a doubt. After all. I shall blot out that sad word every time with my lips. and sometimes. I should only finish by giving you a kiss.

and would shatter all her schemes for my happiness like vessels of brittle glass. now in constant attendance on her mother.
. I ought to have been happy. that I had hoped and prayed for its continuance. for all things seemed conspiring to make my life precious to me. and. that the practice of introspection has a corrosive effect on the mind. and each morning when I woke. did seem to mourn and rave On alien shores_". and in spite of reason and all it could say to me. and so sweet had seemed that pause. when I had sat with Chastel. Nevertheless. to remind me at every pause of an implacable Fate. what others have discovered before me. and. I was unable to compose my mind to that serene. having heard so much said about reason in my late conversations with the father and mother of the house. like evening clouds that appear luminous and rich in color until the sun has set. and without which there could be no blissful futurity. Then to my spirit "_The gushing of the wave Far. waited that sad phantom. this spirit of melancholy had been with me. except at rare intervals. During those restful days in the Mother's Room. there. who held my future in its hands.Chapter 19
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Chapter 19
Although deprived for the present of all intercourse with Chastel and Yoletta. trustful temper she had desired to see in me. each night I went to my bed with a heavy heart. I had thought of sorrow as of something at an immeasurable distance from me. but the mother's hallowing presence had given something of a divine color to it. I was far from happy. which only serves to aggravate the malady it is intended to cure. by my pillow. Strive how I might. my passions had slumbered. far away. After all the admonitions and the comforting assurances I had received. to go with me where I went. who was mightier than Chastel. in order to discover by its aid the secret of the sadness which continued at all times during this period to oppress my heart. began to be darkened with a mysterious gloom. I began to pay an unusual amount of attention to this faculty in me. No sooner was I separated from her than the charm dissolved. and all my thoughts. I only discovered.

volleying sounds. over the barren spaces. from palest gray to slatey−black. but. I thought. for I did not count them−−had passed since I had been admitted into the mother's sleeping−room. all hurriedly talking together in their dead−leaf language! until. and everywhere. fallen things−−suddenly catching a mock fantastic life from the wind. cast−off leaves. and made me long to escape from morbid dreams and vain cravings. how they would all be up and stirring. casting a momentary glory over the ocean−like tumult of nature. smitten with a mightier gust. And the leaves−−the millions and myriads of sere. and storms of rain had been frequent. with winter already present to speed its parting. ever wandering sorrowfully in that vast. had no charm for my spirit.Chapter 19
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Several days−−probably about fifteen. or a thinning of the clouds. it
. seemed to mimic the echoing thunder. every leaf with a hiss like a viper. heaped ankle−deep under the desolate giants of the wood. Why should I sit at home and mope. would illumine the pale blue mist. which would have only afforded fresh delight to a person in perfect health. in storms and stupendous. eddying columns. glittering with wet. lying silent and motionless. to fall to the earth again in showers. far off in heavens. when there came an exceedingly lovely day. and freckle the grass for roods around. the gaunt black boles and branches. Then for a moment. For a long time the sky had been overcast with multitudes and endless hurrying processions of wild−looking clouds−−torn. there to lose themselves among other phantoms. in the hollows of the earth. racing. or passing away phantom−like towards the misty hills. as they roared by over a thousand straining trees and passed off with hoarse. it was better to be active: sun and wind were full of healing. and the sunbeams. In the condition I was in. there would be a rift. wind−chased fugitives. with a relaxed body and dejected mind. shadowy borderland where earth and heaven mingled. striking like lightning through their ranks. Such a day was in truth one of those captain jewels "that seldom placed are" among the blusterous days of late autumn. many thousands at a time. whirled up to the clouds. the slanting rain. and suddenly intermitted. on the contrary. of every mournful shade of color. and gusts of wind which. they would rise in flight on flight. which seemed to bring to me a pleasant sensation of returning health. impetuous. this tempestuous period. as became dead.

although feebly still. They were songs of departing summer. which I began repeating. Before I had gone far. so persistent and somber that they were like superstitions. I waved my hand to her. pale with apprehension. to warn me that I was not yet strong enough for such work. and a light wind blew fresh and bracing in my face. The sun shone as in spring. before my trouble had come to me. not a stain appeared on the crystal vault of heaven. Remembering my happy wood−cutting days. when straying alone. listening to the many dirge−like sounds of the forest. It seemed to me that not I but nature had changed. which was now charged with an awful menacing gloom that frightened my soul. while she returned to attend on her mother. to wreck my life for ever. and shrank from the touch of the big cold drops the clouds flung down on me. and I began to hum snatches of old half−remembered songs. then continued my walk. when a deeper shadow swept over the earth.Chapter 19
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only served to intensify my gloom. and suggested other verses not meant for singing. I assured her that I had no intention of working hard and tiring myself. I got my ax and started to walk to the wood. For I had become infected with strange fancies. full of anxiety. And yet day after day it drew me forth. making my pulses beat faster. or of some tragic action from which the spectator cannot withdraw his gaze. and look to this side and to that. The day was so bright with sunshine that it inspired me with a kind of passing gladness. like an unquiet ghost among the leafless trees. "Rich flowers have perished on the silent earth−− Blossoms of valley and of wood that gave A fragrance to the winds. everywhere the unfailing grass gave rest to the eye with its verdure."
. I knew not from where. that the familiar light had passed like a kindly expression from her countenance. ever prophesying evil. as if considering which way to fly from some unimaginable calamity coming. like the sight of armies contending in battle. until in my trepidation I would start and tremble. I would pause. however. she came running to me. then seeing Yoletta watching my departure from the terrace. This bright day was better suited to my complaint. tinged with melancholy. although in my weakness I shivered in the rough gale. Sometimes. It fascinated me.

I remembered how often in former days. breathing only of sadness.Chapter 19
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And again: "The blithesome birds have sought a sunnier shore. but now I recalled the words the father of the house had spoken to me. clear gray in color. I had breathed a prayer to the Unseen Spirit. and which seemed so infinite. wailing and
. Half−way to the wood. and brought my eyes to earth again. with a black collar on the neck. during my troubled days. They were very stately. Gazing up into that far blue vault. and the prayer died unformed in my heart. which they made their summer home. which made me resolve to dismiss poetry from my mind and think of nothing at all. then they rose with a loud. on an open reach where there were no trees or bushes. the river too was filled with these new visitors. I came on a great company of storks. All this movement in the feathered world had. They lingered till the cold cold winds went in And withered their green homes. boisterous weather. with necks drawn in. rustling noise of wings. brought me as little pleasure as the other changes going on about me: those winged armies ever hurrying by in broken detachments. handsome birds. when gazing up into such a sky. and red beak and legs. under which they moved so serenely. as if dozing. only to settle again at a short distance off. My approach did not disturb them until I was within twenty yards of the nearest−−for they were scattered over an acre of ground. Incredible numbers of birds. and were now flying south in search of a warmer climate. and I was told that most of them were passengers driven from distant northern regions. chiefly waterfowl. and a strange feeling of orphanhood saddened me. half a thousand of them at least. soaring in wide circles at an immense height above me. had appeared in the neighborhood since the beginning of the wet. I tried to interest myself in a flight of buzzard−like hawks. apparently resting on their travels." And these also were fragments. for they were all standing motionless.

and as they swept round or doubled in the air at intervals came these tempests of melodious sound−−a most perfect expression of wild jubilant bird−life. and the kind she most esteemed now had been arriving for over a month. first the rich blue. on account of its starling−like habit of wheeling about over its feeding−ground. growing dark and thin alternately. and had a most wonderful affection for the whole feathered race. where they built their nests in the rushes. with a freer flight. to my distempered fancy only added a fresh element of fear to a nature racked with disorders. The charming effect was increased by the bell−like. their numbers increasing day by day until the woods and fields were alive with their flocks. but with cold weather they flew abroad. its color being deep glossy blue. for she was curious about such matters. with nothing to amuse their vacant minds
. chirping notes they all uttered together. the birds throwing themselves into masses. It was somewhat larger than a starling. then scattering and gathering again many times. and continually changing its form. remaining in great flocks near the house until the next spring. and before continuing my walk I wished that Yoletta had been there with me to see them and tell me their history. and full of tremendous signs and omens. as if moved by one impulse. or black−plumed like messengers of doom. and at such times seemed always to prefer the neighborhood of man. so that when viewed at a distance a large flock had the appearance of a cloud. discoursing in the most delightful way about her loved cloud−birds. and had a richer plumage. or blue−black. had told me that they spent the summer season in great solitary marshes. considering that there were no longer any savages on the earth. The interest with which I now remarked these pilgrim storks seemed to me a pleasant symptom of a return to a saner state of mind. She had her favorites among the birds at different seasons. Yoletta. white with their own terror. and underneath bright chestnut. the aerial gambols of a flock were beautiful to witness. On this bright sunny morning I was amazed at the multitudes I saw during my walk: yet it was not strange that birds were so abundant. as the birds wheeled about and displayed in turn. then the bright chestnut surfaces to the eye.Chapter 19
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clanging by day and by night in the clouds. This kind was named the cloud−bird. When close at hand and in the bright sunshine.

straining my sense to catch the first faint sound of her light. had found me. newly released from confinement. hopping along the ground. sick at heart with hope deferred. as I had heard her before. rustled a withered leaf. and every time a small bird. insolence in their eyes. and looking up beheld Yoletta coming swiftly towards me with outstretched arms. "Welcome. and would be anxiously thinking about me. I remembered how. I went to that spot where I had felled the large tree on the occasion of my last and disastrous visit. and becoming tired in a very short time. for she had followed me out to try to dissuade me from going to the woods. and gazed into the pair of clear brown eyes watching my face
. dear old friend!" said I. swift step. and at last. There lay the rough−barked giant exactly as I had left it. I concluded that I was not yet equal to such work. and. Presently something touched me. cried like a disappointed child. she would surely come when I wished for her so much. I covered my face with my hands. When I at length arrived at the wood. but I should hear her. I had heard a slight rustling of the withered leaves. I saw that great silver−gray dog which had come to Yoletta's call when I fainted. and. No doubt he remembered that last wood−cutting day very well. sitting before me with his chin resting on my knees. weak with misery. I started up to greet and embrace her. and her face shining with joy. but my feeble strokes seemed to make little impression. and for ornaments the feathered skins torn from slain birds on their heads. when sitting on that very spot. and she could spare an hour from the sick−room now. and had come to take care of me now. I sat motionless. scarcely breathing. and pressed my face against his. Perhaps she would come again to me to−day: yes.Chapter 19
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except killing the feathered creatures with their bows and arrows. But she did not come. and no innumerable company of squaws clamorous for trophies−−unchristian women of the woods with painted faces. and where Yoletta. removing my hands from my face. and once more I began to hack at the large branches. The trees and bushes would prevent me from seeing her approach. and sat myself down to rest. Then I sat up again. and in my craving for sympathy of some kind I put my arms over him.

St. you do not intrude your comely countenance. spaniels. wheezy pet dogs of a hundred breeds? They are all dead. I fancy. with your fellows. and last of all−−being more degenerate−−the corpulent. and blades of grass. and sharp−nosed.Chapter 19
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so gravely. blear−eyed. You are a good. and left no seed. and were never over−clean or well−behaved. and when I speak to you. Yet there was not a beast in all that crew of which its master or mistress was not ready to affirm that it could do everything but talk! No one says that of you. mastiffs. big brute boarhounds. flowers and fruit. with all the ten thousand fungoid cults that sprang up and flourished exceedingly in the muddy marsh of man's intellect. "you didn't lick my face just now when you might have done so with impunity. no doubt: they have been dead so long that I daresay nature extracted all the valuable salts that were contained in their flesh and bones thousands of years ago. retrievers−−dogs rough and dogs smooth. somewhat ahead of your far−off progenitors: long use has also given you something like a conscience. you don't wag that beautiful bushy tail which serves you for ornament. my gentle guardian. whither has vanished the countless rabble of mongrels. talking audibly to him for want of something in human shape to address." said I. and pariah dogs. night and day. Bernard's. "Look here. nor does it matter very much. and how long did that undreaming slumber last from which I woke to find things so altered? I do not know. that's all. knowing your place. pointers. however. according to your lights. You love and serve your master. and without your refined expression of keenness without cunning. Yet in intelligence you are. curs. hounds. caressed with their tongues. sensible beast. you. I only know that there has been a sort of mighty Savonarola bonfire. rat−worrying terriers. old fellow. Into his sacred house. his house and fields. has withered quite away. in which most of the things once valued have been
." "What. and used it for better things−−raindrops. Where are they now−−collies. This reminds me that you are not like the dogs I used to know−−the dogs that talked with their tails. guard his flocks and herds. happened to earth. for dog−worship. froth of the sea. then. but not so slender. silky−haired. And after these canine noblemen of the old regime. nearly or quite as big as you are.

systems of philosophy.Chapter 19
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consumed to ashes−−politics. isms and ologies of all descriptions. and drop from me. why am I not overwhelmed at the thought of it? In that feverish. and on all our hopes. 'Passing away' is not written on the earth. prophesying the end? I know that a thought sometimes came to me. the thought said. fashionable congregation about Daniel in the lions' den. and enthusiasms. dreams. mene. passing through my brain like lightning through the foliage of a tree. poorhouses. the press. schools. This being so. and leave me naked and desolate. upharsin_ seen by Belshazzar on the wall of his palace in Babylon. tekel. beliefs. or some other equally remote matter. and yet. or when I heard some great politician out of office−−out in the cold. political economy. A feeling of awe
. blighting fire of that intolerable thought. or when I walked in crowded thoroughfares. kings and parliaments. dreams. stimulants and tobacco. how empty!−−in the wilderness of every man's soul. and those who are going about doing good. my God. prisons. and all our toil and effort is misdirected. the grass was not greener nor the flowers sweeter when man was first made out of clay. and pianos that thundered peacefully. unimaginable past−−this also appears to have the stamp of everlastingness on it. A little while. and a million things more−−all consumed like so much worthless hay and stubble. history. all hopes. which is still God's green footstool. theories. and those who are seeking for a mechanical equivalent of consciousness. churches. and sometimes also when I lay awake in the silent watches of the night. Sometimes it came when I read a book of philosophy. or listened on a still. religions. hot Sunday to a dull preacher−−they were mostly dull−−prosing away to a sleepy. and all this will be no more. for we have not found out the secret of happiness. was not a voice heard crying out. are alike wasting their lives. and in its tranquil power and majesty resembles some vast mountain that lifts its head above the clouds. vice. 'Passing away' is written plainly as the _Mene. And the human family and race−−outcome of all that dead. full age−−so full. and in the quick. and has its granite roots deep down in the world's center." "That withering thought never comes to me now. and schemes seemed instantaneously to shrivel up and turn to ashes. money. and the breath of life breathed into his nostrils. like a miserable working−man with no work to do−−hurling anathemas at an iniquitous government. beliefs. cannon with its hostile roar.

I am pleased that it was so consumed. I care for nothing but Yoletta. consummate flower on my bosom. In the darkness its eyes.Chapter 20
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is in me when I gaze on it. old friend−−a great. gaunt. and even in the bright daylight its shadowy form is ever near me. man−eating. stealing from bush to bush. yet without reasonable cause. was preferable to this unchanging peaceful present. old friend. with its manifold troubles and transitory delights. far more terrible than that beast of the ancients which came to the poor man's door. since it was scarcely past midday. but it is vain to ask myself now whether the vanished past. glowing like coals.
. for nobler than all perished hopes and ambitions is the hope that I may one day wear that bright. and if the old world was consumed to ashes that she might be created." Bestowing another caress on him I got up and went back to the house. Will it ever vanish. are ever watching me. Good−by. to spring upon and rend me at the last? If they could only clothe my mind as they have my body. or from room to room. you have been well−behaved and listened with considerable patience to a long discourse. and she came out from attending on her mother only at long intervals−−in the morning." "I have only one trouble now−−a wolf that follows me everywhere. It will benefit you about as much as I have been benefited by many a lecture and many a sermon I was compelled to listen to in the old vanished days. to make me like themselves with no canker at my heart.
Chapter 20
Arrived at the house I was again disappointed at not seeing Yoletta. I am sick of thought−−I hate it! Away with it! I shall go and look for Yoletta. metaphorical wolf. thinking sadly as I walked that the bright weather had not yet greatly improved my spirits. like a mere phantom−−a wolf of the brain−−or will it come nearer and more near. ever contented and calmly glad! But nothing comes from taking thought. always threatening to rend me to pieces with its black jaws. since she does not come to me. always dogging my footsteps. Not you.

and feeling too indolent to get myself a reading−stand. and half−obscured by the mists that formed the background. their faces shining with gladness. with haggard. so that looking into the cell it appeared filled with a mist of golden cobweb. I observed a bulb−shaped bottle. their eyes fixed on the ground. in pale gray. Behind these joyful ones. above them. seeing it so closely. but without paying particular attention to it. fine as gossamer threads: behind the first ring was a second. hurrying in an opposite direction−−men and women of all ages. some bowed down. playing on instruments of various forms. very beautifully colored. remembering now that I had seen some volumes there when I had no time or inclination to look at them. appeared a second procession. I sat down. others wringing their hands. and I wanted something to read. and feeling puzzled at the scene depicted on it. rose−colored garments. but it was made warm and pleasant by the sun shining brightly in at the doors opening to the south. with butterfly wings on their shoulders. to which were attached golden strings. or beating their breasts. In the widest part it was encircled with a band. in delicate. Above the bottle there was a deep circular cell in the alcove. without beginning or end. and all apparently suffering the utmost affliction of mind. there being so many treasures of its kind in the house. now. and further in still others. on a level with my face as I stood there. within a niche in the alcove. woebegone faces. running or hurriedly walking. I went on to the extreme end of the room. but mostly old.Chapter 20
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and again just before evening−−to taste the freshness of nature for a few minutes. I supported the volume I had
. where no person passing casually through the room would be able to see me. The music−room was deserted when I went there. I could not help admiring its exquisite beauty. I found the books−−three volumes−−in the lower part of an alcove in the wall. all stringed like the first. their golden hair tossed by the wind−−a gay procession. and on it appeared slim youths and maidens. fitted in it was a metal ring. for although I found reading very irksome at this period. with a long thin neck. I had seen it before. Drawing a cushioned seat to this secluded nook. there was really little else I could do. about fifteen inches in diameter.

There. and in some cases minutely explained. and for so many days before. the last of the series. Turning over the leaves. for many of the concluding sections related to lugubrious subjects which I did not care to linger over. then Death. everlasting calm of beings who had for ever outlived. each with an appropriate heading._ and the subject−matter was divided into short sections. with other matters of the kind. For the children of the house there could be no union by marriage. Glancing through it in this rapid way. and suddenly throwing up my arms. This done I took up the third volume. therefore they had told me again and again that there was only one kind of love. and the conduct to be observed at the various annual festivals. darkened to the blackness of despair. Struggling to overcome my agitation I read on. Ailments of Mind and of Body.Chapter 20
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taken up to read on my knees. Renewal of the Family. for there was here much matter that had no special interest for me. the strongest emotion of which my heart was capable. finally. and left as immeasurably far behind as the instincts of the wolf and ape. the book slipped from my knees and fell with a crash upon the floor. and pretty soon discovered that I had now at last accidentally stumbled upon a perfect mine of information of the precise kind I had so long and so vainly been seeking. it rested unheeded at my feet. the Disposal of the Dead. It was entitled _Conduct and Ceremonial. it occurred to me that this might prove a most useful work for me to study. in body and soul they differed from me: they had no name for that feeling which I had so often and so vainly declared. the first portion of which was headed. then went through the second in even less time. hurrying through page after page with the greatest rapidity. the titles alone were enough to trouble me−−Decay through Age. whenever I could bring my mind into the right frame for such a task. with its beautiful leaves doubled and broken under its weight. but incidentally the things which concerned me most to know were touched on. I soon finished with the first volume. for they. and. the prophetic gloom which had oppressed me all that day. For now the desired knowledge was mine. This part I began to examine with some attention. for it contained minute instructions upon all points relating to individual conduct in the house−−as the entertainment of pilgrims. the dress to be worn. face downwards. alas! could
. and reading a sentence here and there in different sections. Now I possessed the secret of that passionless. and that dream of happiness which had illumined my life was over. As I proceeded.

since any fate would have been preferable to the blank desolation which now confronted me. from whose union the family was renewed. forming the end of a sentence. they were mortal like their own passionless children. fruitful themselves. when I began to recover somewhat from my stupefaction. and to realize the magnitude of my loss. I even wished to possess the power of some implacable god or demon. had no charm for my passion−torn heart. that I might shatter the sacred houses of this later race. and destroy them everlastingly. or pause to reflect on that still unexplained mystery. It was enough to know that Yoletta could never love me as I loved her−−that she could never be mine. and that chill moonlight felicity. noticed now for the first time−−minute. With unspeakable bitterness I recalled my conversation with Chastel: now all her professions of affection and goodwill. as in the past. hair−like lines beneath the strange−contrasted processionists depicted on the band−−and even in my excited condition I was a little startled when these letters. and in this particular house their lives appeared now to be drawing to an end. so that the beautiful flower of love which had withered in men's hearts might blossom again. and repeople the peaceful world with struggling. since even she had read my heart no better than the others. Nor did I ask who their successors would be: for albeit long−lived. beyond which her children were powerless to imagine anything. shaped themselves into the words−−and for the old life there
. the existence of the father and mother in the house. were yet the parents of a barren race. body and soul. There were letters on it. Presently. These were questions I cared nothing about. and stood leaning against the edge of the alcove. with that curious richly−colored bottle close to my eyes. seek further in the book. namely. in my way and not in hers. I wished that I had never made this fatal discovery. all her schemes for smoothing my way and securing my happiness. and who. that I might have continued still hoping and dreaming. and wearing out my heart with striving after the impossible. for the moment.Chapter 20
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experience one kind only. starving millions. I did not. While these insane thoughts were passing through my brain I had risen from my seat. the misery of it almost drove me mad. seemed to me the veriest mockery. which was the very center and core of the whole mater.

had served to sober my mind. perhaps._ "Another important secret!" thought I. and the thoughts that are in you lead to madness. and be cured. and I have no wish to last so long.Chapter 20
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shall be a new life. and at last I began to reason about the matter. Turning the bottle round I read the whole sentence. I had grown calm now: the knowledge that I had it in my power to escape at once and for eyer from that rage of desire. drink of me. it was pale yellow in color. so that it is hard to know evil from good. _When time and disease oppress. drink of me. but I doubt very much that it will give me any comfort. and had a faint sickly smell as of honeysuckles. I shall not drink and be cured! Better a thousand times the thoughts that lead to madness than this colorless existence without love. No. even for the disease of old age. and the sun grows cold in heaven. A panacea for all diseases. so that a man may live two hundred years. but to be without love was even sadder. I poured some of the liquid out into the cup. and still find some pleasure in existence. Drink and be cured. I do not wish to recover from so sweet a malady. "this day has certainly been fruitful in discoveries. But for me life has lost its savor. my trouble increasing till it might no longer be borne. Then I poured it back again and replaced the bottle in its niche." I took the bottle in my hand and unstopped it. and there is no longer any joy on the earth. The stopper formed a curious little cup. Drink of me. not yet. round the rim of which was written. and for the old life there shall be a new life._ "No. There is more writing here−−another secret perhaps. and in the unsubstantial realm of the
. and the fire of love grows cold in the heart." _When your soul is darkened. Some day. would drive me to seek such dreary comfort as this cure−all bottle contained. The nature of my secret feelings could never be suspected. To love without hope was sad enough.

But when this consuming fire has left me−−this feeling which until now burns and palpitates in every drop of my blood. and made me shiver when I swallowed it. but in that over−populated world it divided the empire of his soul with a great. and filled the same small cup to the brim. Ah." I drained the cup deliberately. Yoletta. Would not that be better than this cure−−this calm contentment held out to me? And in time also my feelings would lose their present intensity. no! that was a vain dream.Chapter 20
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imagination it would still be in my power to hide myself with my love. The liquor was tasteless. wanting nothing. saying: "For your sake then. It was much. that loving and being loved by you shall be my one great joy all my life long. and herself pour out the divine liquor. my troubled thoughts at length took me back to that far−off dead past. ever−growing misery−−the misery of the hungry ones whose minds were darkened. for who can say to the demon of passion in him. I began to wonder whether I would be conscious of
. then stopped the bottle and put it back in its place. thus far shalt thou go and no further? Perplexed in mind and unable to decide which thing was best. worshipped more of my soul than any mother in the house. and you are more to me than life or passion or happiness. every fiber of my being−−I know that you shall still be to me a sweet. with a sullen rage against God and man. when the passion of love was so much in man's life. for this is what you desire. let me drink. would not she bid me drink and forget. I could not be deceived by it. For the space of half an hour I pondered on these things. and revel in all supreme delight. which often made them an agony. and the misery of those who. then said: "If I were to tell a hundredth part of this black retrospect to Yoletta. sacred sister and immaculate bride. yet feared that the end of all things was coming to them. through long years of decadence. and be cured. and would come at last to exist only as a gentle rapture stirring in my heart when I clasped my darling to my bosom and pressed her sweet lips with mine. and press it to my lips?" Again I took the bottle with trembling hand. but colder than ice.

journeying to some distant tropical region of the earth. thereafter to be inhabited by her as long as life lasts. and then. I perceived that it had opened at a place some pages in advance of the passages which had excited me. before that icy−cold liquor had done its work. I wished that Yoletta would come to me. But on that lesser gladness had by the children of the house in her exaltation. my eyes mechanically sought the top of the page before me. resting on my knees. all the majesty and glory of the house is centered. and. and because there will be a new mother in the house−−one chosen from themselves−−there shall be no cloud or shadow.. they shall lead her to the Mother's Room. Finally. since in her. And for the space of one year she shall be without authority in the house. who is their predestined mother. and hold her in reverence. it is fitting that she should rejoice for that brighter excellence which caused her to be raised to so high a state. feeling no desire to go back to resume my reading just where I had left off. I carefully raised the fallen book. instructing herself in the secret books which it is not lawful for
. thinks at one and the same time of the unimaginable beauties of nature and art that fire his mind and call him away. with new griefs and cares unknown to those of humbler condition. but. Now. half regretting what I had done. and smoothed out its doubled leaves. being one apart. and. and seeing the shores of his native country fading from sight. regretting that I had injured it. and this is what I read: ". taking her by the hand.make choice of one of the daughters of the house. And she shall no longer serve in the house or suffer rebuke.. I held the open volume as before. and of the wide distance which will hold him for many years divided from all familiar scenes and the beings he loves best. but all shall serve her in love. into which so many have ventured and have not returned. albeit with a solemn and chastened joy. with the father. and of the storms and perils of the great wilderness of waves. and kissing her face in token of joy. and of that new filial love and obedience which will be theirs. For now a changed body and soul shall separate her forever from those who were one in nature with her. like that of the pilgrim who. sitting down again. and to have authority over all others.Chapter 20
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the change it was destined to work in me or not. however. and with that superior happiness destined to be hers there shall be the pains and perils of childbirth. so that I might clasp her in my arms with all the old fervor once more.

I continued reading. her repeated assurances that she knew what was passing in my mind. Then I read yet another page. concerning the dress. in the house all the others array themselves in purple garments. until that new knowledge and practice shall ripen her for that state she has been chosen to fill. and observing day by day the directions contained therein. so that I could scarcely force them to follow the lines. I tried to turn the leaves rapidly. both for ordinary and extraordinary occasions. and a new excitement. and go out singing at sunrise to gather flowers to adorn their heads. and. proceeding to the appointed spot. with many other matters of secondary importance. that only by giving me the desire of my heart could the one remaining hope of her life be fulfilled. that her eyes saw things more clearly than others could see them. notwithstanding the eagerness of my mind. there to pass several hours in solitude and silence. rises before daylight. but now found that my arm had grown strangely stiff and cold. her year of preparation being over.
. extending over several pages. but the above passage was succeeded by minute instructions. and seemed like an arm of iron when I raised it." ***** This passage was a fresh revelation to me. Meanwhile. for.Chapter 20
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another to read. Again I recalled Chastel's words. Impatient to reach the end. making me forget the misery I had so recently experienced. Here I read that the bride−elect. lead her home with music and rejoicing. finding her. communing with her own heart. Now I seemed able to understand these dark sayings. and goes out alone to an appointed place at a great distance from the house. they seek for their new mother. also towards pilgrims visiting the house in the interval. but with the utmost difficulty. my eyes began to remain more and more rigidly fixed on the center of the leaf. to be worn by the chosen daughter during her year of preparation: the conduct to be observed by her towards other members of the family. so that the turning over of each leaf was an immense labor. sprang up in me. and even that increasing sensation of intense cold caused by the draught from the mysterious bottle. full of the joy of hope. then.

All at once I heard a voice calling my name. while my hands. Come. and with ineffable anguish I remembered that she would not be able to see me where I sat. "Oh. "I have been seeking you all over the house. Alas! had I mistaken the meaning of those strange words I had read?−−was death the cure which that mysterious vessel promised to those who drank of its contents? "When life becomes a burden. Yes. when reproving me after my fever. came back to my mind in all their awful significance. Again and again she called. and a terrible doubt shot through my heart. I have something glad to tell you−−something to make you happier than on that day−−do you remember?−−when you saw me coming to you in the wood. held it upright and motionless before me. quick step on the floor. "Come quick. and my mind was active and clear.Chapter 20
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When. she is in the Mother's Room again. now too late the words of the father. I tried to start up and shake off this strange deadness from my body. I tried to cry out. but was powerless to move a muscle. Presently I heard a light. it was my darling's voice−−she was coming to me−−she would save me in this dire extremity. and yet was as powerless as if I had been buried in a marble coffin a thousand fathoms deep in earth. then Yoletta's clear voice. it is good to lay it down". Yoletta. no discomfort even. I had reached the bottom of the page. come!"
. but the voice now sounded further and further away. Suddenly I remembered the draught from the bottle. reading in this miserable. The mother has left her chamber at last. and I could hear and see. my frozen tongue refused to make a sound. absolutely devoid of sensation. I have found you at last!" she cried. and save me from death!" but though I mentally repeated the words again and again in an extreme agony of terror. painful way. for the sensation of intense cold had almost ceased. I found that I could no longer move my hand−−my arms being now like arms of iron. What was the meaning of this condition? for I had absolutely no pain. rigidly grasping the book like the hands of a frozen corpse. waiting impatiently to see you. and attempted to turn it over. and in a moment the tempest in me was stilled.

rang out loud in the room. and put out her hand for me to kiss. In that enforced stillness and silence I waited expectant for some moments. now−−now she was gazing on me with such divine love and compassion in her eyes. at that supreme moment. with all its wide. tranquil rooms rich in art and ancient memories. with everlasting beauty−−a house enduring as the green plains and rushing rivers and solemn woods and world−old hills amid which it was set like a sacred gem! O sweet abode of love and peace and purity of heart! O bliss surpassing that of the angels! O rich heritage. recalling to it the bloom and radiance of which cruel disease had robbed her! And in my soul also. her lips half parted. every voice
. or dancing before my vision. unaccustomed gladness or excitement enhancing her unsurpassed loveliness. with all its rich coloring floating formless. mingling and separating. now loud and now low. by a miracle of the mind. jarring my brain with the madness of its terror. her hand on my neck. like a scene starting at the lightning's flash out of thick darkness. and at the same moment a deeper shadow passed over the page before me. Then a great cry. for now suddenly. my sweet. burdened with an infinite anguish and despair. as of voices of innumerable multitudes wandering in the sunless desolations of space. every stone within them glowing. and striking as with a hundred passionate hands on all the hidden harps in wall and roof. so clearly at that moment did her image shine in my soul! And not hers only. Yoletta. As on that occasion. and the troubled sounds came back to me. and although I could not lift or turn my rigid eyes to see her. my love. my bride−−save me−−save me−−save me! Then something touched or fell on my neck. and I knew that she was bending over me. yet I seemed to see her now better than ever before.Chapter 20
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Her words sounded distinctly in my ears. as on that day after my illness when she had pardoned me. and a slight color flushing her pale face. like bright−winged insects hovering in the sunlight. shone the image of the house. her loose hair falling on my forehead. as of one who suddenly sees a black phantom. with some fresh glory. the entire family appeared there before me. as of a new. and in the midst sat Chastel. must I lose you for ever! Save me from death. suffering mother. like vapors.

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